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Old May 4, 2009 | 02:36 PM
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Ok, the car misfires and jerks when in drive and forum members suggested that the timing was off. My qustions are, how does the timing get thrown off? And what reads other then the posted one would help me do this perferably with pics cuase I don't really know what the physical components look like. Thanks.
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Old May 4, 2009 | 05:00 PM
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Originally Posted by 21boy
...the car misfires and jerks when in drive and forum members suggested that the timing was off. My qustions are, how does the timing get thrown off?
Causes...
1. Distributor has changed its rotation - check for a loose hold down bolt.
2. Centrifugal advance has stopped working - advance is now stuck.
3. Vacuum advance is stuck and not working.
4. Electrical wires connecting pole piece sensor in distributor to the ignition module have an intermittent/broken wire which open circuits whenever the vacuum advance changes its position.
5. Ignition coil is bad.
6. Ignition amplifier is bad.
7. Camshaft timing chain has slipped a tooth, retarding timing, BUT this shouldn't cause misfiring and jerking.

Good luck with your troubleshooting.
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Old May 4, 2009 | 05:10 PM
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If you have the factory points distributor, check the condition of the points, and the condensor in particular.
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Old May 4, 2009 | 05:13 PM
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Originally Posted by gerry72
If you have the factory points distributor, check the condition of the points, and the condensor in particular.
Mine did the same thing when the points were dirty/bad. Replaced points and condensor and engine ran smooth.
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Old May 4, 2009 | 07:35 PM
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So possibly new points.. I'll have to check those causes too but doesn't sound like any of that has happened.. Thanks guys!
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Old May 4, 2009 | 07:37 PM
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21boy, go to an auto parts store and get a copy of the Haynes Repair Manual for 68 to 82 Corvettes. It will give you a lot of basic information. Enjoy your new ride, PG.
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Old May 4, 2009 | 08:26 PM
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If it is an original points distributor with original shaft bushings it is quite possible the shaft play is wreaking havoc on the advance and/or dwell. Ask me how I know.
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Old May 4, 2009 | 10:29 PM
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Originally Posted by dosoctaves
Ask me how I know.
I can only imagine.

Thanks for the info I'll try to pick up a Haynes manual. I have one but not sure on the title because the cover has been ripped off.

Last edited by 21boy; May 4, 2009 at 10:33 PM.
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