what timing should I set?
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Senior User
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 355
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From: Peoria IL
what timing should I set?
56 F100
351c
c4
Just dropped in a new HEI distributor.
Got it up & running & on the right tooth
But I still occasionally get a nice backfire through the carb.
I dont have a timing light (will get one for this weekend)
So what should it be set at? Not a dragster - but I like a good lope from my cam - so a low idle is a must.
351c
c4
Just dropped in a new HEI distributor.
Got it up & running & on the right tooth
But I still occasionally get a nice backfire through the carb.
I dont have a timing light (will get one for this weekend)
So what should it be set at? Not a dragster - but I like a good lope from my cam - so a low idle is a must.
Senior User
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 372
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From: Visalia
Considering the same for mu 351w
Paul
Fleet Owner
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 27,300
Likes: 1,059
From: NM
There's a little more to it. When you bump timing to a level that gives better vacuum, then you usually have to re-adjust the idle speed (too high now), and sometimes the idle mix screws, then repeat playing with timing to re-maximize. Then likely re-adjust the carb. Once you get everything set, take it for a drive and see if it pings on hills. The engine needs to be fully warmed up when doing all this.
Post Fiend
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 19,311
Likes: 97
From: Waterloo, Iowa
It's true, timing and idle speed and idle mixture all interact with each other. But that's going to be true using a light as well. Same difference.
A vacuum gage helps make setting all three simultaneous easy and right on the nuts. Easily one of the best tools to keep in your box, and surprisingly little known. They may pre-date timing lights? Dunno.
A vacuum gage helps make setting all three simultaneous easy and right on the nuts. Easily one of the best tools to keep in your box, and surprisingly little known. They may pre-date timing lights? Dunno.
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