How to do timing

[sandmann999]

Just got a timing light and I'm trying to check the timing on my 81 straight six. The chilton's manual points me in the right direction but then says, "adjust the timing to the proper setting." It doesn't give any information on HOW to adjust the timing. I've never worked with a vehicle with a carburetor or a distributor. How do I adjust the timing? Also, it tells me to pull a vaccuum line, which one do I pull?

Thanks for any help, and if you can just give some step by step instructions on how to do timing from start to finish, that would be great.

Thanks!

 

[Seabronc]

If you look at the emissions sticker on the front right side of the radiator mount, it will tell you the exact timing and which lines to pull and plug while timing.

Good luck,

 

[Bully Bob]

Find the timing pointer (somewhere around the upper part of the harmonic balancer) so you'll know where it is.

There are marks on the balancer, if you clean with a brush, it's much easier to see. It will have TDC (top dead center) & degrees advanced marked on it.

With the light hooked up, aim at the pointer...as the light flashes, you'll see how many degrees advanced you are. Each mark is prob. 2 deg.

There should be a tune-up specs page in your book ....that will tell you the correct amount of adv. with directions.

There's a bolt under the dist. to loosen & allow it to turn. Leave some drag on it though.

Also, keep all wires, hands, & light away fr. the fan & belts....not doing so can ruin your day or even more... (

HTH

Bob