Setting the timing

[rohnk]

When setting the engine timing, which way do you rotate the distributor? Clockwise for advance and counter-clockwise to retard?

I've not done timing in probably 20 years so forgive my ignorance! I know I have to lossen the bolt to allow the distributor to turn just don't know which way to go with it.

Tried starting my Eagle last night after compleing the motorcraft swap. I haven't done the ECM Test yet becuase I wanted to get it running before I do that step.

[doc65]

Negative, advance is always the oposite of the rotation of the rotor, so in this case counter-clock to advance & clockwise to retard.

[thereverendbill]

if my memory serves me correctly you need to bypass the ECM before you set the timing

[eagle503]

You wont get it running until you do the ecm test. The computer is trying to retard - advance the timing in accordance with the signal from the stepper and sensors. It will probably start once then die and just try to turn over from there.

[rohnk]

Ok, I'll ECM Test it tonight and see what happens. I have read where other guys had started and driven there's before doing the ECM Test.

[kajsdf]

i didbut it ran only well enough to back out of the garage and die. you really need to do the bypass before setting timing. it is very easy, just be sure you follow the instructions carefully

[rohnk]

Update for this thread.

I was information that on my 82 model ICM, there are three plugs coming from it. Since I am already wired directly from ICM to distributor, I had to disconnect the third plug with a yellow and black wire on it. Then short the yellow and black together. This takes the ECM out of the loop for timing control.

Slightly different than a ECM Test BYPASS on the two plug ICM's where you have to cut and wire the distributor directly to the ICM.

Moderator, can this be a sticky? Seems like good knowledge to keep shared. I learned it from another nest member so I cannot take credit, but I think this beongs someplace where others can find it easy.

[steveabn8295b]

set sticky

[84eaglelmz]

timing light or vacuum gauge? Which is better?

[carnuck]

I use the vacuum gauge or do it by ear. Once a car is a couple years old, the timing is going to change anyways.

[84eaglelmz]

can you give me a link on what vacuum gauge to get?

[eaglefreek]

http://www.harborfreight.com/fuel-pump-and-vacuum-tester-93547.html

[84eaglelmz]

thank you!