is it ok to change base time without a light?by moving it just a little at a time and taking for a ride. im trying to improve my performance i had the timing chain replaced and it seems to burn more gas than it did.

 

its a 92 f150 5.0 and will it make it have more power

 

You can, but be careful. Any hint of pinging is bad and should be avoided. If you are unsure of what pinging sounds like, I'd try to borrow a timing light from a friend.

 

I would find a timing light unless you have already done this. The amount you move it should be just barely noticeable. When I set mine I barely tapped the distributer, and the timing jumped quite a bit. Make sure, if you have a spout connector, you unplug it. If you haven't ever done this take my advise and get a light. Don't know if you're anywhere near Omaha, but if you are you can borrow mine.John

 

What we use to do back in the day when we couldn't afford a timing light or when we would be out driving and get a little 1/4 mile challenge!! Very carefully you can loosen up the bolt that holds the distributor in place and give it a very very slight turn/advance. Tighten down the bolt and take it for a "spin". If it is not pinging then you can advance it a little more. The trick is to get it advanced just before it pings under a load. That's how we use to do it. Hope this helps.

 

to advance the timing you turn the distributor clockwise?

 

Yes, very very slightly turn/advance it to the right or clockwise.

 

thanks for the help