Timing light "digital" vs "adjustable"

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Sep 11, 2005 | 11:14 PM

71LS5

Thread Starter

Burning Brakes

Joined: Jun 1999

Posts: 751

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From: Chandler AZ

St. Jude Contributor

Timing light "digital" vs "adjustable"

I need to get a new timing light. I have had an hard time setting exact timing due to the timing marker is obscure from veiw in my engine.

I understand that an adjustable light will allow me to dial in a degree or so at a time but what will a digital buy me? what does it read?

Sep 11, 2005 | 11:17 PM

big_G

Le Mans Master

Joined: Jul 2005

Posts: 5,752

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From: Austin Texas

Digital will lighten your wallet...they operate the same...$70 or $200...your choice

Sep 11, 2005 | 11:19 PM

greyghost79

Burning Brakes

Joined: Nov 2004

Posts: 1,028

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From: San Antonio Texas

be sure its got the adjustment dial. used a non adjustable for years. never realized how much easier (and faster) the job goes with an adjustable timing light.

Sep 12, 2005 | 06:21 AM

fl_rider

Drifting

Joined: Mar 2005

Posts: 1,806

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From: Burlington WI

Just a question?

Quote:

Originally Posted by 71LS5

I have had an hard time setting exact timing due to the timing marker is obscure from veiw in my engine.

If you cant see the timing mark how is a different timing light going to make it better?

With the adjustable light you set the desired timing (12*) and then when it flashes the timing mark on the damper should line up with the 0 mark on the timing tab when you have adjusted the distributor accordingly.

In other words you still need to be able to see the timing mark and indicator.

Some white paint in the timing mark will help to make it more visible. Use a toothpick or a very fine brush to apply the paint.

Chris B

Sep 12, 2005 | 08:51 AM

lars

Tech Contributor

Joined: Aug 1999

Posts: 14,366

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From: At my Bar drinking and wrenching in Lafayette Colorado

Quote:

Originally Posted by 71LS5

I understand that an adjustable light will allow me to dial in a degree or so at a time but what will a digital buy me? what does it read?

The adjustable analog lights will do everything you need to get done for about $69. The digital lights will also give you rpm info, dwell, and other info, depending on the light. They'll set you back around $150 - $200.

Sep 12, 2005 | 09:16 AM

Stewart's74

Safety Car

Joined: Aug 2000

Posts: 3,943

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From: Florham Park NJ Port Credit Ontario

I have a Matco adjustable timing light and am very happy with it.
I dont know how to use it. or tune my car, but I am very happy with it....

Sep 12, 2005 | 12:13 PM

ACECO

Drifting

Joined: Nov 2003

Posts: 1,634

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From: Northern NJ

St. Jude Donor '04 & '05

Quote:

Originally Posted by Stewart's74

I have a Matco adjustable timing light and am very happy with it.
I dont know how to use it. or tune my car, but I am very happy with it....

Well perhaps Lars can teach you how to use it in a couple weeks.

If not you can always give it to me.

The old antique non-adjustable one I'm using works fine, but I've been looking for an upgrade.

Tell you what, I'll trade you for a video of your car being tuned. Then you will remember how to use it.