Setting Timing
 

Okay, so I don't have a 1st gen, but I DO have a 1st gen ignition system, a LA vacuum advance distributor.

Now I've never had to mess with a distributor that I could time before. The guy I got the engine from must have loosened the distributor clamp bolt, so I have no base to adjust timing there.

So I'm just gonna say here what I am gonna try to do to set the dizzy just well enough so I can start the engine to set timing. Correct me if I get anything wrong!

With the dizzy cap removed and spark plugs removed, put my finger on no. 1 cylinder spark plug hole and find compression stroke then crank the engine till it lines up TDC on the timing marks. Here's where I don't know what to do next: Which cylinder should the rotor be pointing to now?

Also, what should I set as far as total timing goes? I tow alot in hot weather, I run 1 range colder spark plugs to avoid knock, and I have to be able to use 87 octane fuel. I'm thinking 15* advance on what base timing?

Thanks!

I'm pretty sure the firing order is the same as a Magnum, so it would be 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2

I'm currently looking in my Haynes for info...bear with me...

It should point to number ones spark plug wire outlet on the Diz cap. Was the Dizzy removed or just loosed?

^That's what I'm finding too.

do you have a timing light? i would leave it were it currently is and try starting it. if it don't fire try twisting it all the way one way. if it still wont fire twist it all the way the other way. if it still won't fire try in between.

Dizzy was loosened entirely, why I have no clue lol. At any rate, here's what I have come down to: I removed all spark plugs (since I have to replace them anyways), then I marked near the dizzy roughly where no1 terminal is. Now I'm going to turn the engine over til I reach TDC on no 1, then I'll set the dizzy so that the rotor lines up with no1 terminal then I'll use a timing light to set timing accurately once the engine is running.

Next question, how much advance should I set? one guy recommended 15*, does that sound about right?

And yes I have a timing light, a friend let me borrow his.

you adjust it till the truck runs good. the timing can greatly vary depending on many things including what gas you use.

I use 87 octane, and do alot of towing in hot weather.