Haggisbash

Does anybody know if this will work? I have a basic timing light which works okay on my engine using a separate battery as its power source. I have the chance to borrow a better one which has dwell, revs etc on it, will this work the same way or do I need to use the cars own battery so that the dwell and other features will work?

Joebrick

I have found that the easiest method is to carefully clamp the positive lead of your timing light to the positive connection at the back of the alternator....don't need to worry about the separate battery.

scottw

No need using another battery.

my 76 ray

That's what I do also.

Haggisbash

Hmm, good thinking I will do this also

resdoggie

Haggisbash

Dwell was 24 deg, have moved to 30 deg but may have to set timing back 2 deg, it is on 36 deg but my engine is not standard, has a mild cam and lowish compression so will try 34 deg.

TimAT

Dwell should be 30*. End of story.

Ignition timing is what works best for your engine/cam combination. Normal(?) is 36* total at 3000 RPM.

Slight changes in dwell DO have an effect on timing, but it will take more than a small 1-2 or 3 degree change to make any real difference.

No dial back timing light? a little measurement and some math will get you a reasonably close mark on the balancer to see where your total advance is.

Haggisbash

Total advance is 36 deg, I was advised 34 deg would be good for my MM350 (mild mannered). Dwell is staying at 30 deg, I have shifted the dist slightly.

drwet

The fact that you have a mild motor doesn't necessarily mean that you need less timing.