how to set timing
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New User
Joined: Apr 2003
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how to set timing
my friend just bought a 1974 clubswagon van today. We are trying to set the timing but have never worked on a ford engine before. Can someone explain the process of adjusting the timing.
Tuned
Joined: Apr 2000
Posts: 354
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From: Itasca, IL USA
how to set timing
OK- here goes. First you need a timing light. It lights when the number one cyl spark plug fires. Aim the light at the timing pointer ( a metal pointer near the harmonic balancer (vibration dampener). With the engine running, turn the distributor until the proper marks on the harmonic balancer and the pointer line up. The proper marks are what the manual refers to as the timing setting. It is something like 4 degrees BTDC (before top dead center). You will have more detailed instructions included with the timing light. This is how you would normally set the timing (with the engine running). It can also be set with a test light with the engine not running. This is usually done after a rebuild to get the timing close enough to start the engine and then it is reset with the engine running.
