What should my timing be at idle?
For MOST engines the timing is set at idle, and then the mechanisms (centrifugal weights and/or vacuum) advance the timing to suit the rpm and the engine load. The actual idle advance depends on the engine design. 5–8 degrees is fairly common but in some low compression engines it can be 10BTDC or thereabouts.
Is it possible to set timing at idle?
If you have a stock distributor and know either the timing at idle or the maximum advance at a given engine speed and you have a good timing light, you will have no trouble setting timing. If not, here are some ways to get in the ball park.
Why is engine timing different on the highway?
When driving on the highway, your engine’s timing requirement is different. At higher engine speeds, larger throttle openings and greater loads than idle, you need ignition advance. There are two reasons for this. First, you are burning more fuel so complete combustion takes longer.
What should the ignition timing be on a new car?
After adjusting the idle speed, install the blind cap and disconnect the jumper wire from the test connector. If not already done, remove the wire from the test connector. Connect a timing light to the engine and check the ignition timing. The initial timing should be 12°11°BTDC (Before Top Dead Center).
What’s the ignition timing for a Drag Race Engine?
Ignition timing is a tuning tool for professional Top Fuel drag race engine builders. The spark advance in a 10,000+ hp nitro-burning engine is typically as follows: Idle/staging is typically 55 degrees to ignite the cylinders with a rich idle mixture. Launch typically 50-53 degrees adjusted for an optimum power at launch.
When do you change ignition base idle timing?
Typically, when your car comes from the manufacturer, ignition base idle timing is set to a manufacture specification before top dead center. The timing advances as the engine’s speed accelerates, however, resulting in a variable that will need to be periodically adjusted using a timing light.
When driving on the highway, your engine’s timing requirement is different. At higher engine speeds, larger throttle openings and greater loads than idle, you need ignition advance. There are two reasons for this. First, you are burning more fuel so complete combustion takes longer.
How is ignition timing set on an engine?
Ignition Timing Explained/Timing an Unknown Engine. It is set when the engine is built- by placing the camshaft and crankshaft in the correct relationship. It cannot be adjusted on a stock engine. It doesn’t change: if it was right once it will be right for the life of the engine, barring disaster.
What do I need to adjust the timing on my car?
Your timing must be at the correct setting for your car to perform at top level, affecting the speed and efficiency at which the engine fires. You can adjust your car’s timing with a timing light and a set of wrenches, tools available at any auto parts store.