Reply To: Ignition Timing

The book method is fine for a system that is in tip-top condition.  However, in my experience, unless the distributor is reconditioned (or new) wear and tear will inevitably affect the accuracy, no matter how methodical and careful one is.

My method, is basically as Davey suggests ….

• Ensure point gap is correct.  (I  prefer to set the points gap using the dwell angle, rather than with feelers.  On my perfo I had an RB distributor without a vacuum advance and found 54 degrees to be optimum setting).
• With the advance/retard control in the central position use the 6mm pin to locate the initial firing point
• Rotate the distributor clockwise beyond the firing position (points closed) and then turn it back anti-clockwise until the points are just opening, using a timing lamp or meter.
• Clamp the distributior lightly and REMOVE THE PIN
• Start the engine and then adjust the distributor position to give the ideal running position.  This will entail initially obtaining a smooth tick-over and then blipping the throttle to ensure it picks up smoothly.  Tuning “by ear” may sound a bit hit and miss but, after a few goes it soon becomes clear what to expect and how to achieve it.
• Lock the distributor.
• Have a cup of tea.

B………………