Timing indicators, do you use them?

O

old31

Well-known member

Attachments

  • timing indicator.jpg
    timing indicator.jpg
    15.2 KB · Views: 219
In my opinion, if you are using electronic ignition or any distributor with mechanical advance, a timing indicator is absolutely necessary.

I also feel a timing indicator is good if you are using a stock Model A distributor especially with a higher compression head where timing is more critical.

Again, this is just my opinion, others may have a different opinion.

Chris W.
 
I've never used one. I just crank the engine until the pin falls in the hole. Then I set the points to where they are just about to open.
 
I use them on all my engines - in cars/trucks and on engine test stands. I find thm far more accurate then he "henry" pin system.

Part of that "get it purrfek" thang. ken
 
Per your above questions:

I. Who is using timing indicators by Brattons, or similar to it?" .... I am.

II. What are your opinions about them?

A. In my situation, a Timing Indicator = A convenient "All - Time" Timing Device that can be quickly used when trying to "accurately" time a Model B distributor .... on a Model A engine .... that has a Model A Front Timing Cover.

B. "All - Time" Timing Device = A Timing device for:

1. Timing above said B Distributor/Model A engine when one is in one's Garage and/or Shop; and,

2. Timing above said B Distributor/Model A engine in any type of emergency when one is far away from one's Garage and/or Shop.

It is always up to each individual Model A owner to choose what works best for his/her Model A.
 
I have one. But I have a 6.1 head and a "B" distributor, so dropping the pin in the hole and setting the points to open wont work. Very handy with a timing light.
 
OK guys, I feel foolish in asking - I have forgotten and I haven't used one since I got out of college !!!!!!!:eek: So, can someone explain the procedure and or come up with a few drawings on what and how to use one in this situation???? Thanks in advance, Steve
 
Heres how I did it
1 bolt indicator to block
2 set dial indicator with magnetic base on head and make an extension for the stem that goes in spark plug hole with an offset in it to touch the top of piston atdc on compression stroke.
3 mark pulley, use file to cut groove and fill with silver paint.
It is nice to know the timing advance at idle with the rpm's and the full advance in degrees say at 2000 rpm's
carry on nick c
 
old31 said:
Who is using timing indicators by Brattons, or similar to it. What are your opinions about them?

I have a 5.5 head and was going to try using my digital dial back timing light.

https://www.brattons.com/ignition-timing-indicator-only.html
Click to expand...

I have 5.9 Brum head and extra hp (65) I have elec ign. I have used 6 volt light for timing since 2000 , years ago found using timing pin always close but using timing light and markers you will be surprised how much it can differ. Have fun modelAtony tony white Lafayette, LA
 
When I made my first dial indicator adapter, I used a lathe, mill, taps, 1/2" cr round 1'' long or 3/16" cr round.
There is another way to do this. You'll need a compression coupling for 3/16" copper tubing and a 20 penny nail, Cut just the head off of a 20p nail, belt sand to 3/16" dia. so it will go into the brass coupling, the offset will be about 1" to go into the spark plug hole and end up over the piston. Most all dial indicator stems are just over 3/16" in dia, so take the ferrel out and saw cut it down one side and clean up the inside with a 3/16" round file.
carry on nick c
 

Attachments

  • IMG_0154.jpg
    IMG_0154.jpg
    53 KB · Views: 183
OK, can you help me with the readings. I am not sure what they are telling me. What do I have?

Hopefully you have the FSI Zipper and a 5.5 head as I do.

I purchased the Snyders timing kit. http://www.snydersantiqueauto.com/timing-kit-degree-indicator

With my dial back timing light hooked up to a 12 volt battery I was able to get it to work.

The timing pin fell into the timing gear hole at the same time the piston was at TDC.

With the timing pin in place and the rotor is just where it should be on the #1 distributor pin. At the same time it corresponds to the Snyders "0" on the circle chart that is placed on the distributor.

This is what I have.

At 400 RPM I have to adjust the light to 28.7 achieve 0 on the Snyder timing gauge that is bolted to the motor.

At 500 RPM I have to adjust the light to 21.8 achieve 0 on the Snyder timing gauge that is bolted to the motor.

At 1400 RPM I have to adjust the light to 47.9 achieve 0 on the Snyder timing gauge that is bolted to the motor.
 
Does this sound correct? I would think the reading should be 0, not 20.

With the nu rex timing indicator installed. I checked the timing pin against the piston TDC and they were perfect. I put a white mark next to the nu rex 0 on the pulley.

While idling at 400 RPM the white dot was next to the 20 advance with the timing light. Wouldn't that be a 0 at idle, and not 20?

My model T-111 Kal dwell meter showed that I have 20 dwell.
 
Guys, do you have any thoughts on this?

Should the timing light be showing 0 or 20 degrees?

How does the dwell look?
 
At idle timing is normally set at zero. You have too much total advance. 28-30* is good for most engines.

John
 
Last edited:
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top