The last thing a racer wants is to roll out on the track only to find that the engine is not up to full song.
There can be a zillion reasons for poor engine performance, and one of those reasons could be as simple as the incorrect timing set. Incorrect timing is not typically a big problem to solve-all it takes is a little attention to detail. A timing check should be a standard of any prerace rundown for every competitor and team.
To help in that effort, Circle Track took a look at the basic steps in a timing check. To some, this will all seem very basic, and it is. But to others, it may be a useful primer in the elementary steps used in the engine-timing process.
In either case, a fundamental review of timing steps can never hurt. So follow along as we cover the primary routine for setting engine timing.
Before beginning your timing...
Before beginning your timing check, you will want to have a good timing-light set. Many of these items are on the market at affordable prices. Once you've chosen a timing-light set, the first step is to connect the clamps securely to the power source.
The next step is to attach...
The next step is to attach the connector to a spark-plug wire. Make sure the attachment is secure and that it's connected to the No. 1 cylinder wire.
Before looking at timing,...
Before looking at timing, the engine is rotated, lining up the damper timing marks and the pointer. Now it's time to look at the timing to see what adjustment needs to be made. For race engines, the timing should be set at full advance (at the manufacturer's recommendation) in the 3,000-rpm range. Setting the timing beyond recommended full advance can cause the engine to detonate or burn pistons-and not at idle. At the first look at timing, if it is correct, then you have been living right and this task is done. But if it's not, then there is a little more to do.
If timing adjustments are...
If timing adjustments are required, first loosen the distributor lock-down bolt enough to allow the distributor to be rotated right and left. The rotation direction will depend on whether the time should be advanced or retarded. For the Chevy engine used in this example, standing in front of the motor, a clockwise rotation will advance, and counterclockwise will retard. When the timing has been set, don't forget to tighten the bolt back down.
Another method of advancing...
Another method of advancing or retarding timing is shown here. Many mechanics use this method. It requires a light touch and is done without loosening the distributor bolt.
Tip: Occasionally during the...
Tip: Occasionally during the timing-set operation, the timing light may show some flicker. Should this occur, check the power source, and make sure everything is OK there, then check the distributor lead wires. If the polarity is reversed, it can cause the light to flicker and may prevent the timing from being set correctly.