Help! Timing Problem 327/365 HP Engineose

[Jack64]

Car back on the road after 43 years in storage!
Frame off restoration completed.

Having difficulty finding the timing mark on the harmonic balancer so can time at 10 BTDC.

Given I haven't done this in 43 years, I reviewed the process with a mechanic. My light is properly hooked up.

In the interim I have timed it by ear, as well as trial and error with numerous test drives. Think it is close, but would like to know for certain.

Any help appreciated.
Thanks

 

[LLC5]

Find 0 TDC on your harmonic balancer and put some white or yellow paint on it, mark your set timing (10* BTDC) in another bright color. Set your dwell (if points equipped) to 28-30 and then set your timing with the timing light clipped to #1 cylinder (left front). Always set dwell before timing with a points system.

 

[Jack64]

Timing Mark

Thanks LLC5
No points.
I changed to Petronix electronic ignition.

Still unable to locate mark on harmonic balancer.
Should I rotate the engine with short on-off @ ignition?

 

[Hib Halverson]

No.
Pull the spark plugs then rotate the engine by hand turning the bolt in the center of the harmonic damper. Once you find the mark...highlight it as directed above.

Start the engine, disconnect and plug the vac. advance then set the initial at 8-10°

 

[Jack64]

LLC5/Hib
Before I get started, bear with me. Has been 43 years since I timed this engine.

Attached is photo of only gauge plate on my harmonic balancer. Is is rotted/broken? Seems not to be, as the edges are smooth. Your thoughts?

Many thanks...

 

[LLC5]

The engine timing marker looks good, it's on your timing cover, not your balancer/lower pulley. "A" is for advance, each hash is 2* of initial timing, 0 is TDC. Find the slash in your lower pulley/balancer and mark it with paint. Run the engine at idle speed with the vacuum advance (if equipped) unplugged and capped off and set your base timing.

 

[Jack64]

LLC5,
Many thanks. Clarifies a good deal.
1) Having trouble finding my mark on the balancer, however.
Any tips? (Pull coil wire and crank engine intermittently?)

2) If I calculate correctly, 10 BTDC would line up with the large hash mark in the vicinity of "0"? Correct?

Thanks again...

 

[Jack64]

Correction.....10 BTDC would line up with large hash mark in the vicinity of "A". Correct?

 

[LLC5]

Correction.....10 BTDC would line up with large hash mark in the vicinity of "A". Correct?

Correct, 5 marks advanced would b 10* BTDC .

I would turn the engine over by hand with a socket that fit your crank bolt and a large 1/2" ratchet or breaker bar, pulling the plugs will make it easier to turn but it can be done slowly and carefully with them in. You could also "tap" the ignition switch to crank with someone watching for the mark, but make sure that your coil wire is solidly grounded. I have found that it is easier to rotate the crank by hand (with the ignition key not near the vehicle) and watch for the mark, but you do need the correct tools to do it.

 

[Jack64]

Crank to the right? (Clockwise)
I have 1/2" socket with breaker bar

Again, thanks your interest and assistance

 

[LLC5]

Crank to the right? (Clockwise)
I have 1/2" socket with breaker bar

Again, thanks your interest and assistance

Yes, would. I like to turn in the direction of the bolt being tightened.

 

[Jack64]

LLC5,
Many thanks your assistance.
Will try adjustment this weekend.

Good to know there are talented people like yourself out there, willing to help us backyard mechanics , especially those who have been out of the loop for many years.
Jack

 

[LLC5]

LLC5,
Many thanks your assistance.
Will try adjustment this weekend.

Good to know there are talented people like yourself out there, willing to help us backyard mechanics , especially those who have been out of the loop for many years.
Jack

No problem, it’s been a long time for me too.

Good luck with it.

 

[Jack64]

LLC5,
Just to update, found the time to address the timing issue.
Was able to find TDC and thereafter adjust timing to 10BTDC as called for.
Test Drive, car drives like it's young again!

Last question: Don't see how I can set Total Timing, as the light I have is a basic one, and the Engine Timing Marker doesn't go anywhere near 34, the setting for my car.

If Tom or others are monitoring, you are deserving of an enormous 'thank you', not only for your assistance, but the for the professional manner in which you assisted me in my efforts.
Jack

 

[LLC5]

LLC5,
Just to update, found the time to address the timing issue.
Was able to find TDC and thereafter adjust timing to 10BTDC as called for.
Test Drive, car drives like it's young again!

Last question: Don't see how I can set Total Timing, as the light I have is a basic one, and the Engine Timing Marker doesn't go anywhere near 34, the setting for my car.

If Tom or others are monitoring, you are deserving of an enormous 'thank you', not only for your assistance, but the for the professional manner in which you assisted me in my efforts.
Jack

You would need a adjustable advance timing light to check your total timing on the engine. As long as it starts, idles, and runs good, with no spark knock heard you are probably fine. Getting into fine tuning takes a lot time/patience/trial and error with carbs and distributers.

 

[Hib Halverson]

You need either a "dial-back" timing light or install a "timing tape" on the harmonic damper. A timing tape is the best choice.