Timing and Vacuum

[FF82]

Ok...so i set the timing correctly but the engine still seems to run rich (sooty plugs) and is very loppy at idle. I decided to throw a vacuum gauge on it to see if i could get some additional information. I had added a port for the vacuum wiper motor on the intake (previous owner had replaced the intake and never bothered hooking up the old wiper motor) As soon as i disconnected the wiper motor vacuum line, the engine starts to run much better (more air in the mix) My vacuum gauge seems to indicated that the timing is off (steady needle, but low). I'm going to go over the timing again (maybe use a timing light this time) but could this be more of a carb issue maybe? I've ripped it down and cleaned it out twice and no change....hoping someone out there has an idea what might be the cause.

Also, how much moisture does it take to have the oil go milky. I had a leaky head gasket and i've fixed that problem, but still the oil seems to go milky almost as soon as it starts running. The rad level drops, but only slightly....something i would just attribute to contraction of cooling water....

 

[Tom Wesenberg]

Cam gear timing will affect the compression pressure, but ignition timing won't affect the compression checked during a compression test.

Some old oil remains in the dipper tray and will contaminate the new oil, but if you are still seeing milky oil, it's time for more checks.

 

[Kurt in NJ]

When setting timing with a vacuum gauge advance till highest vacuum, retard 1" of vacuum ---this gives a very close to proper idle timing for most cars --if the systems are in good condition.