Rotating backwards to line the mark up brings in any timing chain slack and skews the synchronization between the crankshaft and the distributor (which is driven off the camshaft). It must be brought there in the direction of normal engine rotation (clockwise on the overwhelming majority of cars, but observe it to be certain). In other words, if the spec is 5 degrees before top dead center, you want the pointer at the 5 degree mark. A manual will tell you, or you can observe it by cranking the engine with the distributor cap off or by watching while doing the next step.īring the crankshaft to the timing spec. You need to know which direction the distributor rotor rotates. Dwell angle is what you really want, point gap is an approximate way to achieve it. Experience has shown me that in many cases the specified point gap doesn't always result in the specified dwell. If a dwell meter is available, that's definitely preferable to a gap measurement. Carefully done, it's rather accurate, easily within one or two degrees.įirst, set the point gap, or better yet, the dwell angle. There is a procedure for setting the ignition timing to the spec without a timing light. ![]() I have a Snap-On adjustable timing light that I've had for a long time but I always like stuff like this, MacGyver eh? are all of your new wire connections tight from the ignition work?įound this from back in 2002, has a couple of other tips or methods on how to set ignition timing without a timing light.are all of your wires on the right plugs?.did you hook the vacuum tube to the right port on the carb?.are you actually running the vaccum advance? (I have found that most of my big blocks liked a bit more initial timing and no vacuum advance).are your points if you have them set correctly?.There are several factors to also consider. Now engine has the timing is set to as much advance as it will eat. Then back it up to the previous "no ping" spot and tighten the distributor down. Repeat this until it pings just slightly. If no pull over and advance it a bit more. In second at the low end dump into the throttle. (you may need to turn down the idle screw with your trusty flathead that you brought) This will usually cause the idle to increase. Turn the distributor the way the vacuum advance is pointing with the engine running. Take the car for a short drive to a spot you can do some acceleration runs and also pull over if needed. (or take your trusty 1/2" wrench with you.) Tighten the distributor to the point it can be moved by hand but tight enough that it wont move while driving. Since Most early American V-8 engines will only take so much timing advance before "pinging" and since they seem to run well just before that here is how to get to there without a timing light. The "hill-billy" method of setting timing
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |