Crab distributor initial setup

[Pandersen33]

Im trying to install an electronic crab distributor -speedway 910-8353 in my 39 motor. The engine starts and runs but id like to get some more info on adjustments. Is this thing adjusted by loosening the 3 mounting bolts? Where are they normally set? My motor has no timing marks so without tearing it apart id like to how this thing is set up. Their tech support was very little help. Directions require a timing light which would require marks...

 

[Mart]

Use a cable tie to determine a tdc mark. make a pointer. get a dial back or electronic timing light.
Start with this: https://youtu.be/dn446jjCVRg
Then watch this: https://youtu.be/XDlNSuW-47Q

Mart.

 

[JSeery]

Yep, need to start with establishing a TDC mark on the pulley and fabricating a pointer.

 

[flatjack9]

Yes you loosen the 3 bolts to adjust timing, but without a pointer you are SOL.

 

[Kurt in NJ]

you could get close with a vacuum gauge, advance at idle to maximum vacuum, retard 1 inch of vacuum

has the advance curve been verified to suit your engines needs ---idle timing may be a compromise depending on total advance

yes from the picture at speedway the bolts are loosened and assembly is rotated

carry spare stock dist for breakdowns

 

[Newc]

Hi; Listen to Kurt about a spare... I just pulled a friend's bad pertronix and replaced it with my last' Bubba' crab, and is he happy. The electronic is a wall hanger now. So now I'm out of stock of the good ones. newc

 

[Pandersen33]

Thanks for all the suggestions. Looks like ill be pulling it back apart!

 

[Mr 42]

I drilled a hole in one of the cam cover bolts, and silver soldered in a pointer in the bolt.

Then did the positive stop method, in same way as Mart.

 

[JSeery]

Thanks for all the suggestions. Looks like ill be pulling it back apart!

What are you pulling apart?