Dwell Setting

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Oct 30, 2008 | 12:42 AM

Marino

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From: Whitwell Tennessee

Dwell Setting

I have a 1969 stock 427/390 and no manual. Can anyone tell me what the point gap ,dwell angle and timing should be set at? Any help would be appreciated.

Oct 30, 2008 | 06:25 AM

Gordonm

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From: Forked River NJ

The stock settings call for a point gap of .019 and a dwell of 28-32. The stock timing is 4 BTDC

Oct 30, 2008 | 08:35 AM

capevettes

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Quote:

Originally Posted by Gordonm

The stock settings call for a point gap of .019 and a dwell of 28-32. The stock timing is 4 BTDC

I run my 390 horse dwell at 30. You will probably find the factory spec on timing a little "retarded". 12 degrees initial is more like it depending on whatever it takes to get to around 36 degrees at about 2800 RPM's.

Oct 30, 2008 | 06:17 PM

Alan 71

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Joined: Sep 2006

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From: Westminster Maryland

Hi Marino,
I'm just KIDDING but.... you should not be allowed to own a GREAT car like that if you haven't bought the GM CHASSIS SERVICE MANUAL for 69!!!
Have Fun!
Regards,
Alan

Oct 30, 2008 | 09:26 PM

earthquake68

Drifting

Joined: Apr 2008

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From: Sparta Mo.

Points?! What are those?!

j/k. ALL Chevy V-8's were set to 30 degrees dwell. No exceptions. Capevette is right about the timing. Stock tends to be a little sluggish. I don't know that I'd go to 12 degrees right off though. Maybe 8. But hey, that's just me. The full advance of 36 is right in the ball park. You'll need an advance light to know where total timing is.

Oct 30, 2008 | 10:19 PM

Mike Ward

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Quote:

Originally Posted by Gordonm

The stock settings call for a point gap of .019 and a dwell of 28-32. The stock timing is 4 BTDC

It's actually a gap of .019 or a dwell of 28-32 degrees. Simply two difference ways of measuring the same thing.

Oct 30, 2008 | 11:27 PM

0Willcox Corvette

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From: Jeffersonville Indiana 812-288-7103

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I would put the points in the range mentioned. However, while you are setting the dwell, it’s a good time to check for distributor bushing wear. If you bring up the RPMS after you set the dwell, see if it increases. If the dwell increases you have a problem in the distributor bushings.

When the dwell increases with RPM’s, the upper bushing is worn and allowing the distributor shaft to move when torque is applied.

Willcox Inc.