302 Timing

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Nov 15, 2003 | 09:06 AM

Tom Youngblood

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302 Timing

I have a 86 F150 4x4 that has the EFI removed and replaced by a 600cfm Holley. I am putting in a MSD ignition system (Coil, Distributor, and 6A Ignition Module). I saw a previous post where someone gave the spring setup for their distributor but can't find it again. I would like thoughts and recommendations on spring and bushing setup, initial and total timing. I know I will need to djust it for my vehicle but a good starting place for a rookie is appreciated.

Nov 15, 2003 | 10:37 PM

DW2455

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From: Independence, MO

Intial timming start about 10 BTDC for your total timming should be 32-34 degr. as far as your springs/advance goes general rule is to have your total timming all in by aprox 2500rpm. hope this helps DW

Nov 17, 2003 | 08:26 AM

Tom Youngblood

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Thanks. It seems to respond better, but I think I expected more. Of course, I have only tried one spring combination ( blue & light silver) and the red bushing. However, the pinging is totally gone. Previously I was pinging under load even at 8 or 9 degrees. Now I am at 12 BTDC and quiet as a kitten. Will run it a few days and try bumping it up again and different spring combinations.

Dec 3, 2003 | 08:27 PM

black874x4

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what purpose does the springs inside of the distributor have?

Dec 3, 2003 | 08:57 PM

circledirt

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From: kansas

centrifugal advance is determined by the spring tension on the weights which spin inside the dist. more rpm,s pull weights and so advance is increased. lighter springs allow faster advance.

Dec 4, 2003 | 12:01 AM

DW2455

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From: Independence, MO

Softer springs- quicker advance. stiffer springs-later advance. DW

Dec 4, 2003 | 06:50 PM

black874x4

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Is it possible to visually check for proper spring action?

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Dec 4, 2003 | 09:50 PM

Jimbeaux

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From: Texas

Not directly unless you have a clear distributor cap or some pretty fancy test equipment. To check mechanical advance:
Make all the appropriate safety precautions.
Hook up a tac or have someone in the cab helping.
Disconnect the vacuum advance and plug.
Mark the harmonic balancer for your maximum advance.
Connect timing light and start engine.
Slowly increase engine speed while you watch the timing.
It should advance smoothly to the maximum by around 2500 RPM and hold steady at idle. Work with weights and springs to make it so.