How can I check the ignition timing on my 1996 460 ci? There are no timing marks on the harmonic balancer although it has a distributor. The label under the hood says that the timing is not adjustable so how do I compensate for wear or check that the timing chain hasn't jumped a tooth?

 

First off you do have timing marks on the harmonic balancer. You might have to use emery paper to clean them and then mark it at 10 deg BTDC.

Second the timing is adjustable. Just plug out the SPOUT jumper, put a timing light on it and loosen the hold down bolt.
Start the warm engine and turn the distributor to adjust the timing.
Tighten the hold down bolt. recheck the timing mark.
The put the SPOUT back in and check to see if the timing mark moves. If it moves you are done, remove the light.


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Thanks for the reply. I did as you suggested and the timing seems to be around 9 degress BTDC so I guess the timing is ok. The problem is that it takes several tries for it to start when it has sat over night or while I'm at work. I saw a post where someone had the same problem and found that his coil was putting out a low voltage. Unfortunately, I have no way of measuring my coil's output.

 

I would have my doughs about low voltage out of a coil if you have normal voltage at the coil from the ignition switch.

More than likely you have a empty fuel line.
This can be caused by and leaky check valve in the FDM, a leaky FPR seat or a leaky fuel injector. This can be tested with a fuel pressure gauge and by checking the leak down time. A bad diaphragm in the FPR most of the time causes more problems than this but you can take the vacuum hose off the nipple and check for fuel in the hose.