Static timing a distributor

[Trent M]

I'm finally gonna get to work (play!) on tractors tomorrow. I don't have a timing light, so I'd like to set the distributor timing with my multimeter. Can someone please explain precisely how to do it?

My best guess is that I'm checking for continuity between the distributor's external connection (where the small wire goes to the coil) and the distributor cap's center tower (that also goes to the coil). Then I would set to TDC and rotate the top of the distributor towards the engine to the point where there is no longer continuity. Am I close and/or where did I go wrong? Thanks!

[Lurker Carl]

Instead of using the meter, remove the distributor cap. Rotate the distributor until the points arc. Tighten the clamp, install the cap and you're all set!

[Gary Dotson]

If you choose to use the multi-meter, connect between the dist. terminal & a known good ground. You wont see continuity at the center tower. I generally do it similar to Carl's method, except I look for a spark from the coil wire.

[Jim Becker]

Any of the above will work. Watching for the spark at the points or coil requires having the ignition on. The multi-meter methods require it to be off and can be done before the battery is hooked up.

[artc]

beaconlight
Cub Pro



Joined: 19 Aug 2004
Posts: 4845
Location: NY Staten Island & Franklin
Posted: Sun Dec 25, 2005 9:51 pm Post subject:

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There is a section in the book for cold or initial timing. It is used to time an engine after removing the distributor to set an intial time to get the engine started and follow up with a timing light to tweeek it using a timing light. I have found that if I am careful the timing falls in just right and doesn't need tweeking. With the ignition off turn it to top dead center # 1 piston (the one nearest the radiator) The pointer should line up with the mark on the pulleyand the rotor should point to where the #1 spark plug wire is when the cap is on. This is done after adjusting the points. Any way next loosen the distributor mounting fastener. Rotate your dist till the points just break. Keep that adjustmentand tighten the dist.
You will find this in the manuals on Rudi's site.

Bill
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Bill

connect the multimeter on OHMS between the coil (distributer side) and ground, ignition off. not polarity sensitive, you are simply looking for short/open condition.

[pbrawner]

You would be amazed at how close you can come to properly setting the timing by ear. Assuming the points are properly gaped, the plugs are clean and properly gaped, and the spark plug wires are functioning without arking. loosen the distributor and with the motor running twist the distributor until you have the most pleasant sound. That is the proper setting.

[Denny Clayton]

You would be amazed at how close you can come to properly setting the timing by ear. Assuming the points are properly gaped, the plugs are clean and properly gaped, and the spark plug wires are functioning without arking. loosen the distributor and with the motor running twist the distributor until you have the most pleasant sound. That is the proper setting.

"The most pleasant sound" is rather subjective and arbitrary depending on the listener. The smoothest sound I have found not to be the optimal power setting.

[Trent M]

I wanted to recheck the point gap also, which I adjusted slightly. I already was set to TDC when I had the distributor off, and the cap off. So I turned on the ignition key and set as Lurker Carl suggested. The results? Well, are the 9.5 ag tires supposed to spin if you pop the clutch out a little to fast? I think this one is ready for the Woods 59.

Actually I'm hoping to give it a work out with the 23a disk before mowing season, but it rained AGAIN last night.

[beaconlight]

Glad to see it worked out well for you.