John described it
well.
More modern ?
Use a test light...
I would do the distributor while it
is off the engine to set the point gap on a high
distributor cam lobe. It is easier than
leaning over into the engine compartment.
Set the engine for number one cylinder at
the top of compression stroke.
Put distributor in, and find the advance
you want, like 7 to 10 degrees before top
dead center (BTDC). Put a test light from
power source to the distributor and
rotate the distributor until the light goes out. That is when the contacts "open"
and when the coil should fire that spark plug.
Tom
S
southern Ohio
First you have to be sure you are on the
compression stroke of the number one cylinder, either by feeling the air push
out of the cylinder with something to cover the spark plug hole or by pulling
the valve cover and watching the valves to be sure both are closed on number one
when the timing mark lines up with 10 degrees or the correct timing for your
engine. Once you have the timing mark lined up you can use cellophane off of a
pack of cigarettes to put between the points which you will pull gently on while
you turn the distributor opposite of rotation until the points release the
cellophane and tighten the distributor bolt to lock the distributor in place. Of
course you have to have the rotor pointing at number one and the distributor all
the way in for this to work. You also want to be sure the points are gapped
properly before you set the timing.
John McCann
Wilbur, Washington
Picture site:
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Tuesday, May 09, 2006 11:31
AM
Subject: [FWDLK] Timing a 331 Hemi
Hi Every one I am trying to start
the 331 hemi I just had rebuilt and wanted to ask if anyone had any tricks to
setting the timing with the engine not running to start me off. I read
the book and it is confusing as to the proper way to do it. I think the book
wants 10 Degs BTDC but if anyone has a more modern way of efficient way of
doing it . I would appreciate the help. I have 3 weeks to have the
car back together before the first car show of the season in Plattsburgh NY
Thanks again for the help. Chuck Deyoe 1955 New Yorker
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