Timing Lights

[34 FORDOR]

There has been a couple of posts recently about using timing lights .I would like to buy a light with dial back and built in tach that WILL work on my v8 with stock ign and on my model a with pertronics ign . I have a timing light with dial back similar to the one summit racing sells, works well but no tach. I also have a Innova 3568, the strobe works, but the tach and timing advance control are all over the place. The tach on my Uni-t ut107 multi meter will not give accurate readings either. The new modern equipment does not does not appear work on old ignition systems, to much electro magnetic interferance ? Any suggestions ?

 

[Bertha]

I've always used my Mac TL86 dial back, connected to a spare 12v battery and the strobe is nice & bright. My latest tune-up ended up at 8*btdc, 475rpm.
I then adjust the idle for smoothest running in gear. All stock ignition. Have never had a pre-ignition problem using modern e-free 89 octane.

Bob

 

[scicala]

I know Snap-On makes a dial back timing light with tach, but probably costs a small fortune.

Sal

 

[chap52]

If all else fails you can pick up an inexpensive IR tach online. These units usually come with stick on reflective tape that you stick on your front pulley. Then just point & shoot to get the rpm reading. May not be as convenient as an all-in-one unit, but I find the one I got to work just fine.