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advancing the timing

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Old Oct 31, 2003 | 09:31 PM
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advancing the timing

My truck runs better with the timing advanced to about 15 degrees BTDC instead of 10. I have an emissions test I have to pass, will advancing the timing increase my chance on not passing? If I have it at 10 the idle is rough. I have been through all the tuneup stuff including a new o2 sensor.
 
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Old Nov 1, 2003 | 01:45 AM
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Do they check the timing during the emissions test in your area? I used to live in California and I had a truck that would only run right with the timing set at 18 deg. BTC. Even though the emissions were within limits at that setting, they always made me reset it to 10 deg. +or-2 deg. before they would pass it. Back here in the U.S.A., all they concern themselves with is what's coming out of the tailpipe.
 
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Old Nov 1, 2003 | 06:51 AM
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No, they don't check for timing here in IL, just CO and HC. I can't find a reason why, but my truck just won't run right at 10 BTDC...it idles rough. I'm hoping it passes this time.
 
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Old Nov 1, 2003 | 09:06 AM
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Did it fail before? If so, where was the timing then?
Good luck and let us know what happens.
 
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Old Nov 1, 2003 | 11:17 AM
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Originally posted by dbuck50
No, they don't check for timing here in IL, just CO and HC. I can't find a reason why, but my truck just won't run right at 10 BTDC...it idles rough. I'm hoping it passes this time.
Your cam timing is prolly off is why you have the slightly rough idle @ 10*...mine is I am just not too sure if it's advanced or retarded. I get it inspected when it is running its best.
 
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Old Nov 1, 2003 | 11:19 AM
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Oops...so sorry about the double post.
 

Last edited by Hit Man X; Nov 1, 2003 at 11:54 AM.
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Old Nov 1, 2003 | 11:51 AM
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I dont see why timeing would effect emmissions ratio. (Edit, I"m saying "I dont see why it would be seen as a problem for the emissions test." It was just bad grammer.)
I would think they would be happier that your truck is running properly and that the emissions are withen regulations.
 

Last edited by Talyn; Nov 1, 2003 at 12:38 PM.
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Old Nov 1, 2003 | 11:59 AM
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Originally posted by Talyn
I dont see why timeing would effect emmissions ratio.
I would think they would be happier that your truck is running properly and that the emissions are withen regulations.
If it's over advanced you'll knock, and if under it will idle odd and have low power. Not running properly will adversly effect emissions...it's pretty tough to explain but just bring it in how it runs best.
 
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Old Nov 1, 2003 | 12:37 PM
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That was bad grammer on my part.

I was talking about why the people who check the emissions would say its a problem to have your timeing changed while haveing the emissions checked.
 
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Old Nov 1, 2003 | 12:58 PM
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I think it's a California thing...
 
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Old Nov 1, 2003 | 02:17 PM
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I have a friend in cali, i shall ask him when i see him online.
 
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Old Nov 2, 2003 | 10:59 PM
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Make sure that you disconnect the battery after you set the timing. This makes the computer relearn what changes you have made. This could very well be the reason that your truck does not idle correctly after doing a timing change. Also if you run your truck advanced beyond 10degrees initial you will most likely flunk your emissions test. This is because your computer richens the mixture of fuel to air when ever you advance your timing. Which is another completely different story. So be sure to set your timing @ factory specs. until the emissions are checked then put it back to your desired amt. They also sell a bottle of fuel additive that guarantees you will pass your emissions, You may as well try it.
Also be sure that if you tow heavy loads that you put your timing back while towing because this advancement can damage your motor under heavy loads.
PS. Dont forget to disconnect the spout connector while setting your timing
 

Last edited by adamk1974; Nov 2, 2003 at 11:02 PM.
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Old Nov 3, 2003 | 07:39 AM
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Would it be better to retard my timing for the emissions test? I didn't pass at 10 BTDC, but that may have been due to it not really being warmed up...only ran for about 20 minutes before the test in city driving. Right now all I want is to pass the test. I"m starting to wonder if my timing chain is stretched.
 
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Old Nov 3, 2003 | 02:37 PM
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Someday they will figure out a good way to take care of timeing problems.
 
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Old Nov 3, 2003 | 04:02 PM
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would advancing the timing on my truck be worth it? i race it every now and then and any benifit wouldn't hurt.
 
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