I have a 1990 with a 302 and I believe it's pinging under full throttle. I've heard to advance the timing a bit, but I'm not sure how to do that. I know how to loosen the distributor and move it around, but do I need a light to adjust it "5 degrees". Also which way retards, and which way advances? I just want to play around with it a bit to try to get rid of the pinging.

Thanks a bunch
Jason

 

Yes, you need a timing light to verify the changes you are making. Advancing the timing will increase the chances of your engine pinging. I don't remember off hand which direction does what.

 

laka,

The distributor on your engine turns counter-clockwise. If you want to retard the timeing then turn the distributor case counter-clockwise. Turning the case clockwise will advance and probably make the pinging worse. You also might want to check to see if your EGR valve is carboned up. This could cause the pinging also. It's a pretty easy check and clean type item.

Randy

 

Don't forget to un-plug the spout connector before setting the initial timing! Regards.
RSH