Econo Lube And Tune ripoff caused the engine to seize. Everett Washington

I am not sure on all Chevrolet engines but on many engines (Big Block Ford and Pontiac engines of the 60's & 70's I know for sure) it is possible for the distributor to be seated enough to still turn (and vehicle run) but not engage the oil pump drive. I have done it myself on distributor reinstallations but caught it quickly so no damage was caused by the zero oil pressure.

Sorry Mike, but it will not happen the way you stated. When the distributor went upwards, as you say, it would have immediately done 2 things. One; it would disconnect from the oil pump drive shaft. Two;, it would also dislodge itself fron the camshaft. A soon as the distributor came away from the camshaft, it would stop turning. At that exact point in time, your engine would shut off due to lack of ignition. You need to look for another possibility if your engine is indeed locked up. Perhaps the oil pump drive shaft broke, not a unlikely occurance. More than likely though, there is nothing wrong with the engine and whatever shop you took it to told you what you wanted to hear. If someone comes to me and keeps telling me they know the engine is broke, I'll agree with them. They are going to spend their money with whomever tells them what they want. I would suggest you get at least 2 opinions on the engine, including taking it back to Econo Lube, since any warranty claim would have to be through them, and they will not be liable if you have another shop "repair" the vehicle without letting them attempt to rectify the problem first. Good luck.