Dwell question

[Chris H.]

I just set my dwell on my 62 340hp w/ dual points.

Initially just hooked up I had a total dwell of 25.

When I put a piece of cardboard in on of the points it still read 25 and I adjusted to 29 per specs.

When I put the cardboard in the points I just set it would not start. I found the points were to far open and had to make a few turns to get any dwell and then 29.

When measuring the total dwell it was now 34 as spec'd.

My question is with the dwell so far off what was happening to my engine? Could this cause hard starts when hot? A very rough idle once warmed up?

Thanks, Chris

[William C.]

Re: Dwell question

Dwell will affect timing. Once timing is set, a change in dwell will cause a corresponding change in timing. The timing change could provide the symptoms you mentioned.

[Duke W.]

Re: Dwell question

As Bill said, as dwell changes, so does timing. Whenever you set dwell angle you should immediately follow up with a timing check and adjustment as required.

Depending on how sensitive you are to changes in engine operating characteristics. a slight change in timing due to dwell change from rubbing block wear or point erosion may or may not be noticeable.

Duke