Is proper timing required on all engines?
unless there is need for a supplemental or continuing spark prior to the exhaust stroke. Setting the correct ignition timing is crucial in the performance of an engine. Sparks occurring too soon or too late in the engine cycle are often responsible for excessive vibrations and even engine damage.
What does timing an engine mean?
Ignition timing is measured in degrees of a crankshaft rotation before top dead center (BDTC). Ignition timing advancing means that the spark plugs are firing earlier in the compression stroke, farther from TDC. The air and fuel mixture in the combustion chamber doesn’t burn right away.
What is normal engine timing?
That is typically 15-35 degrees before TDC (top dead center) of the power stroke depending on the engine speed. Best power is achieved when ignition timing is set to fire the spark ahead of time to reach that peak pressure at about 2 degrees after TDC.
How does the timing of the engine work?
Different types of timing. Your ignition timing, on the other hand, can be harder to identify, but it’s easy to adjust. Ignition timing has to do with the four cycles of your car’s engine. The four cycles are: Air gets sucked in by means of the intake valve, while the injectors deliver fuel.
When to change ignition timing for maximum power?
Optimum timing from a fixed (locked) ignition advance occurs at only one engine speed. Ignition timing is too advanced at engine speeds below that and not advanced enough at engine speeds above that. Changing the timing value up or down changes the engine speed up or down for the optimum ignition timing.
Why does too little dwell affect ignition timing?
Too little dwell gives the magnetic flux insufficient time to build up to the maximum. Both conditions give a weak spark which gets even weaker as the engine RPM rises and produces misfiring at normal operating speeds. The dwell, as well as spark plug gap, do have an effect on ignition timing.
What should I do if my engine timing is weak?
If it pings, retard it little by little until the pinging goes away. If it seems weak, advance the timing a little at a time until you hear pinging or find the engine hard to start, then retard it again. Before you even start working on your timing you need to have a timing light.