F1 engine timing

[dodgeguy1942]

Hi everyone, can you tell me how to set the timing on my f1. Is it through the double hole at the back left of engine?

[Ravvin]

Hiya.

If by double hole you mean the thing in the pic below, then yes.



I believe they positioned it here on the flywheel housing so you can electrocute yourself on the plug leads while trying to get your head down low enough to see in while aiming the timing light, and trying to twist the distributor to adjust the timing. 

Greg.

[dodgeguy1942]

Thanks ravvin. What does the mark on flywheel look like? Is it a line to line up with the points of the circles

[Ravvin]

I really don't know. I haven't adjusted mine yet. I would expect your assumption is right though, as that would make sense.
I went right through the Workshop Manual but didn't find anything about setting the timing, other then that initially it should be 6° BTDC for premium fuel and 3° BTDC for regular fuel. Optimum setting is supposed to be done by road test. That would be fun. I wouldn't like to be the guy with his hand down through the gap, trying to turn the distributor slightly while screaming "Hows that now?" to the driver over the noisy engine while being zapped off the plug leads.

When it's time to do mine, I think I'll be the driver.

Greg.

[Chazza]

I wouldn't like to be the guy with his hand down through the gap, trying to turn the distributor slightly ...

Greg.

Does the distributor have a knurled adjustment wheel on its side? If it does, that makes it easier than using a spanner.

I am scared of moving distributors on a running engine, after being zapped more than once; so on an engine I don't know well, which may have leaky high-tension leads, I turn it off, put  a mark on the base and move it slightly and then restart and check the timing with a light. It can be a rather slow business,

Cheers Charlie

[Ravvin]

No knurled knob.



I took a couple of pics just now. Looks like a locking plate at the base that you loosen.

I definitely need to degrease all that. It's on the list. 

Greg.

[Bluebell One-eight]

The timing mark is a steel ball embedded in the flywheel. It can be a 2 man job to find it, but once you do put a mark with some paint on the lead up to the ball to make it a bit easier next time. This is where the crank handle is worth its weight in gold. If you start on the compression stroke on No. one it will be a bit easier too. The slipper plate is meant for small adjustments, it's best to set the timing with the bolt set so you can go either way when fine tuning .

[john.k]

Use a timing light,its all dead easy.You can also see the timing advance and retard as you rev the engine.Ive done hundreds turning the dizzy and never had a bite.Dont over advance ,you will just pound out the bearings for no gain.Also install a new condenser,as they have a limited life.Regards John.