C2 Small Block Timing Question.

[Ken K.]

(1966 327/350HP L79) I just got done detailing my engine and the compartment. Reinstalled the distributor and wires. The car starts fine and runs O.K. I went to check and adjust the timing and it seems like its too far advanced. (Its about an inch off the timing grid.) When I turn the distributor to adjust the timing down, it starts to runs rough. (It likes it better off the scale) I tried moving the distributor "one tooth" each way, but the car doesn't start at all when it is not at the current place. Yes, I do have the vacuum advance off and plugged when checking the timing. One note, I'm not sure what the timing was before I started the detailing project. I also checked the "DTC" on cylinder one, and the timing line was right at "Zero." (Can timing lights go out of calibration?) Thanks

[John M.]

Re: C2 Small Block Timing Question.

Ken,
Did you remove the distributor gear? It can be put back in the wrong orientation. Did you move the position of the plug wires in the cap? Off by one is off by 22 degrees. Is the light a dial back type?

[Jack W.]

Re: C2 Small Block Timing Question.

John's query on whether you are using a "dial back" timing light relates to the next question, if you are using one, is the dial pointer set to 0 (zero)? If not, that would surely explain the "off the grid" timing you are witnessing

[Ken K.]

Re: C2 Small Block Timing Question.

No, just an old basic "Actron" light. Clip onto the battery and plug wire "one" and thats it. (No adjustments)

[Duke W.]

Re: C2 Small Block Timing Question.

Back to basics:

1. Place #1 at 10 degrees BTC

2. Pull dist. and verify that drive gear dimple points same direction as rotor.

3. Verify that plug wires are installed in the cap per the drawing in the CSM.

4..Install dist. with rotor pointing about 20 degrees to right of centerline with base seated.

5. Rotate dist. until points just begin to open

6. Verify that vacuum can is about half way between the coil bracket and inlet manifold interference point and dist. window is near pependicular to engine centerline.

(If the above is not true, something is wrong with the installation.)

7. Start engine and set initial timing.

Duke