Using Your Timing Light
DO NOT ALLOW THE INDUCTIVE
PICKUP CLIP TO CONTACT THE
EXHAUST MANIFOLD OR OTHER
ENGINE PARTS. These parts become
EXTREMELY hot while the engine is
running, and will damage the inductive
pickup clip.
Fig. 5 Inductive Pickup Clip Connection
INDUCTIVE
PICKUP
#1 SPARK
PLUG WIRE
3.
Connect the battery clips to the vehicle's
battery:
■
Connect the RED battery clip to
positive (+) battery terminal.
■
Connect the BLACK battery clip to
negative (-) battery terminal.
4.
Connect the inductive pickup leads to the
bottom of the timing light handle.
INITIAL (BASE) TIMING CHECK
NOTE
Some ignition systems require that certain
components be disconnected, jumped or
grounded BEFORE ignition timing can be
checked or adjusted to specifications. If
these procedures are not followed, the
checked or adjusted timing will not be
correct. You MUST consult your vehicle's
service manual for the proper procedures
and specifications.
1.
MAKE SURE the timing light is properly
connected as described in TIMING LIGHT
CONNECTION.
2.
MAKE SURE the engine has been
properly prepared for the timing check as
6
3.
4.
5.
6.
ENGINE
7.
8.
9.
described in ENGINE PREPARATION
BEFORE TIMING.
Start and run the engine until it reaches its
normal operating temperature.
Adjust the engine's idle speed, if
necessary, to conform to manufacturer's
specifications:
If using the Model 3555 Advance Timing
Light, MAKE SURE the Advance Control
Knob is rotated fully counterclockwise to
"0".
Adjust the Timing Light barrel, as needed,
to adequately light the timing marks.
Press the On/Off switch. The Timing Light
will begin flashing. Note the position of the
rotating timing mark in relation to the
reference pointer. See Figure 6.
Fig. 6. Reading Timing Marks
REFERENCE
POINTERS
■
Compare the readings obtained in
step 7 with the manufacturer's
specifications for timing. If the
readings are within the specified
tolerance (typically ±2°), ignition
timing is correct.
■
If the readings are not within the
manufacturer's specifications, parts
replacement or timing adjustment
MAY BE necessary.
Press the On/Off switch. The Timing Light
will stop flashing.
Turn the ignition off and disconnect the
Timing Light from the engine. BE SURE to
reconnect any vacuum hoses, etc., which
were disconnected during the timing
check.
ROTATING
TIMING MARKS