300 Timing problems

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Jul 25, 2004 | 10:04 PM

SJL

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From: Central PA

300 Timing problems

I have a 91 E-250 that is giving me a headache trying to time it.
When I try to time it using plug wire #1 I can't even see the mark!

The guy I bought it off of may have messed up the distributor and plug wires.

I tried some of the other wires and would'nt you know it, on #3 it's close to the mark! The van runs but has a bad case of knock under load. I'm amazed it runs knowing how far off it is.

My question is what is the starting point for the correct order for the wires. Also could the distributor be 180 degrees out? I have the fire order and it's in the correct sequence but I'm not sure if it's not 3 spot off.

HELP!

Steve

91
E-250
4.9

Jul 26, 2004 | 12:51 AM

fordflaresides

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Joined: Apr 2004

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From: Tucson, AZ

Just to kill the obvious, If the distributor uses vacuum advance did you plug it off, this makes a big difference.

Jul 26, 2004 | 07:41 AM

SJL

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From: Central PA

No vac advance it's a 91 with EFI and a SPURT. I also unpluged the connector before I tried to time it.

I read something about the timing marks moving on the pully/balancer, anyone know anything about this?

Thanks

Steve

Jul 26, 2004 | 11:45 AM

FordF150Fixer

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From: Central Virginia

The 300 is infamous for the outer part of the harmonic damper slipping. Also, there are two timing indicator marks on some 300 engines. The more ovious timing marks are on the driver's side of the timing gear cover. Some engines also have timing marks on the passanger side. Please don't ask me why. It appears to be one of Ford's better ideas. It may be possible that your timing isn't as far off as you think, maybe your just using the wrong set of timing marks.

Jul 26, 2004 | 06:37 PM

SJL

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From: Central PA

Thanks for the info about the 2 timing marks. I came across the same info last night after my post. Why Ford in it's infinite wisdom would put 2 sets of marks and 2 indicators is beyond me. If any one has an explaination for this I'm all ears!

The better side of this is I timed it today with the correct marks and line on the crank pulley, and it runs great! More power and no knock! it looks to me that it was about 35 or so degrees BTDC way before the 1st mark. I'm amazed it ran as well as it did.

Just a note for anyone else who is searching for the mark on the pulley you may want to try a scotchbrite pad while the engine is running. Do this from the underside and BE CAREFUL OF MOVING PARTS! After the pulley is cleaned off bump the starter until you can see the tiny scribe line not the big notch. use some white paint and your done.

Thanks to all for the help.

Steve