how to set timing
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Feb 2026
Posts: 147
Likes: 18
From: Scottsdale AZ
how to set timing
What is the procedure and values I am shooting for when setting timing and adjusting dwell time? I just rebuilt the carb and tuned that in so i figure I should check the distributor next.
1967 Pedal Car Champion
Joined: Mar 2020
Posts: 8,998
Likes: 4,156
From: US-PNW
Dwell specs are to be between 28° and 32°. I aim for 30°.
The timing is going to depend on a lot of things:
If you provide everything you know about these basics you'll get a better idea of where to start. Timing is something where even "identical" engines can perform best with different settings.
The timing is going to depend on a lot of things:
- what engine you have,
- what modifications have been done,
- what fuel you buy,
- how hilly your location.
If you provide everything you know about these basics you'll get a better idea of where to start. Timing is something where even "identical" engines can perform best with different settings.
Le Mans Master
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 7,328
Likes: 2,249
From: Central Maryland
Dwell affects timing, so set dwell before timing. As already noted, spec for dwell is 28* to 32*.
My approach for timing is as follows:
You'll want initial advance plus maximum centrifugal advance to be around 36*, and for the centrifugal advance to all come in at or above 2,500 RPM. You'll need a dial-back timing light, or accurately applied timing tape to the harmonic damper, to measure this. This must be measured with the vacuum advance disconnected. Plug the vacuum hose while it's not connected to the advance can. Once you have this dialed in, let the engine return to idle, check the timing (with the vacuum advance still disconnected), and write down where the timing lands at idle. You can then set the timing at idle in the future to this setting.
Vacuum advance should advance the timing 16* and it should be all in at idle.
Test drive while listening carefully for any hint of detonation or pinging. Retard the timing incrementally if required to eliminate. Loud exhaust can mask pings.
'Hope this helps.
Live well,
SJW
My approach for timing is as follows:
You'll want initial advance plus maximum centrifugal advance to be around 36*, and for the centrifugal advance to all come in at or above 2,500 RPM. You'll need a dial-back timing light, or accurately applied timing tape to the harmonic damper, to measure this. This must be measured with the vacuum advance disconnected. Plug the vacuum hose while it's not connected to the advance can. Once you have this dialed in, let the engine return to idle, check the timing (with the vacuum advance still disconnected), and write down where the timing lands at idle. You can then set the timing at idle in the future to this setting.
Vacuum advance should advance the timing 16* and it should be all in at idle.
Test drive while listening carefully for any hint of detonation or pinging. Retard the timing incrementally if required to eliminate. Loud exhaust can mask pings.
'Hope this helps.
Live well,
SJW
Le Mans Master
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 7,389
Likes: 2,573
From: Really Central IL Illinois
I'll offer some articles by one of the Gurus of GM who has sadly passed.
https://www.camaros.org/library.shtml
Go down to Timing 101 by JohnZ. The other articles are great too. Don't get excited as it is a Camaro Site. A Chevy is a Chevy for the most parts
Ron
https://www.camaros.org/library.shtml
Go down to Timing 101 by JohnZ. The other articles are great too. Don't get excited as it is a Camaro Site. A Chevy is a Chevy for the most parts
Ron
