Timing Questions

[Mark_vaughn]

I think I have everything setup right for the belt. The problem is getting the belt on there.

Is there a trick to getting some slack out of the tensioner to make it easier to get it on?

When I get it all on there where do I need to set the distributor to? 1st or 4th cyl?

[So Cal Mark]

take the spring off the tensioner, or pry the tensioner all of the way over then tighten the center nut to hold it in place.

Dist should point to #4 with all of the timing marks lined up

[Mark_vaughn]

When you say point to #4 do you mean the wires(cap) should be pointing that way, or the rotor should be pointing that way?

Is there a way to check timing with a light without the front cover on? I am not using the cover anymore.

Engine runs very rough. Backfires. Will not rev above idle. I think it is timing.

Info on car:
1800 engine
38ADL carb
Stock cams
Craine XR3000 optical system in place of points.

I know I should be at 10 btdc, just need to know how to get there...

Any advice?

[racydave]

Mark, On this engine to set up the cam timing, the dist rotor will point to number 4 cyl. If you keep the dist slightly loose and manually adj timing to obtain a good idle, then use the timing light with the vacume advance unplugged and capped off.

[Mark_vaughn]

I don't have a vac advance. It is a stock dual point distributor that I converted with the Craine kit.

When turning the distributor what am I listening for? Smooth running?

If I advance too far what will happen? Retard too much what happens?

Clockwise is advance, correct?

[fiater]

Without a timing belt cover, you can set your ignition timing using one of your camshaft gears. Chalk one of the holes, hook your timing light up to #4 plug wire and aim the light at the pointer and you'll be able to find TDC. You'll have to guess at 5 or 10 deg.BTDC. I haven't had a cover on my Special for years and this method has worked well for me. I usually advance the timing a little so the hole is apx 1/4" before the pointer.

[So Cal Mark]

make sure the firing order is right, 1-3-4-2

[Mark_vaughn]

I get shocked every time I try to turn the distributor cap while running. I got a new cap and rotor but it still does it. I didn't think it should do that. Any ideas on reasons why?

I am 98% sure I setup the gears correctly at first. But sometimes when I start it the carb will "burp" for lack of a better word. Almost like a backfire but without the loud noise. Is this a timing thing like being too far advanced/retarded or could I have the cam off enough to let compression or exhaust force back out the intake? It will still crank and run roughly.

Thanks guys.

[manoa matt]

It will "burp" like that when you rev it, and its not fully warmed up.

To not get shocked, wear a pair of heavy leather gloves and put a dry rag in the palm of your hand, then turn the distributor by the cap. Stay away from the wires.

[fiater]

You should be able to grab your cap without getting shocked, Your plug wires may be bad. First I'd re-check your valve timing. Without a cover, I'd take out #1 plug and put a dowel into the cyl. then turn the engine over by hand until the dowel is at it's highest point and the holes in the cam gears are by the pointers. If pointers and holes are lined up, then your cam timing is correct. If it is, then I'd set the ignition timing.

[Mark_vaughn]

Success!!

I had it running VERY roughly and couldn't figure it out. After 2 min of run time the plugs were black with carbon. Ended up starting over from the beginning with ignition timing and now it runs GREAT!! I actually haven't even used a light yet, but it sounds perfect! Starts up on the first turn of the key too.

My guess is that I had the timing WAY off.