problem ignition timing

Post by **redstar** » 22 Jan 2006, 20:04

after sorting advance/retard/vacuum pipes out i finally try to time up my 2000 1981 motor.....

The figures in the haynes lying bible list 4-6 atdc with vac on, which i have done, starts real bad and less top end than before (55 mph before) Any ideas would be most welcome..... i have run out of them!

Post by **smnbyt** » 22 Jan 2006, 21:13

is the vac working?

Post by **redstar** » 23 Jan 2006, 10:37

seems t be, got the strobe on it and the mark moves quite a way... i really am baffled!

Post by **HarryMann** » 23 Jan 2006, 10:59

atdc

Post by **redstar** » 23 Jan 2006, 12:56

i think so.... the timing scale has got the 0 on it , i presume its tdc. i am tuning to the left of that... i suppoose thats right????

Post by **HarryMann** » 23 Jan 2006, 13:36

sure it shouldn't be btdc ?

whichever way the rotor arm turns, rotate the dizzy the other way to advance, about 3-4 degrees should do for starters and see if that helps. Be aware of any pinking and back off if so..

Post by **redstar** » 23 Jan 2006, 16:49

thanks harry... will 'have a play' when its less artic outside... will let you know...cheers

Post by **redstar** » 26 Jan 2006, 10:45

Cheers harry, its a bit better, try and keep it going till spring and look harder then.. cheers again!

Post by **HarryMann** » 26 Jan 2006, 11:01

Good, but a tip

If you're fine tuning it 'by ear/seat of pants'...

Don't just change it and run up road, as long as its not obviously over-retarded or over-advanced, both potentially harmful then...

run for a few days, get the feel of it under a variety for driving conditions, and only then change it to another known setting, say slightly advance it, and don't pre-jusge the change until you've savoured it for a few days, and if it seems Ok, a week or so. Keep the dizzy well marked up, accurately scribed. Don't assume more advance is always better at the top-end, it's not, some engines might not pink or detonate, but still hate being over advanced.