To "Dead" time an engine with a distributor, Notes from "MAC"

DEAD TIMING AN ENGINE

Any time you remove a distributor you must return it and expect it to deliver a spark at the right place at the right time!

Procedure “A”

This procedure means that you have taken the time to mark the distributor rotor and distributor body before you have removed the distributor.  You can simply return the distributor to the same location and expect the engine to run as it ran before you started.  If you are installing a replacement distributor or have done repairs to the distributor you removed you will still need to time the engine with a timing light or scan tool.

Procedure ”B”

This procedure is required if the distributor was removed without marking it first or if the engine was rotated while the distributor was out of the vehicle.  (Watch out for your “Friends” when your back is turned!)

1. Remove cylinder #1 spark plug, with your thumb plugging the spark plug hole crank the engine and stop when you get the blast of air pushing your thumb off the hole. This indicates Top Dead Center Compression Stroke, rotate the engine slightly to establish the rotating timing mark to the stationary timing mark.      You have successfully found TDC compression stroke.
2. Locate the Firing Order, direction of rotation of the distributor, and location of the number one spark plug wire connection in the distributor.  Service information can provide these specifications.
3. Install the distributor, locate the rotor position exactly where the rotor is required to be indexed.  (Fuel injection, and timing are inter-related at this location on many engines)  Be certain the distributor has indexed with the oil pump drive and loosely install the distributor hold down bolt and bracket.
4. Install #1 spark plug wire and continue installing the rest of the spark plug wires following the proper rotatation and firing order, install the coil wire.
5.  Attempt to start the engine, Safety must be observed, engine should start and run adjust the general timing to the “Best running condition” by turning the distributor body to the best location.
6. Turn off the engine and install the timing light, on later engines the scan tool, Set the ignition timing to the manufacturer’s specifications.
7. At this time you should verify the rotational advance device (engine speed) and engine load (Power) device for advancing ignition timing.

                                                                                                                  “MAC” 7/11