123Ignition Static Timing, Engine will not start Options

[SteveNMaine]

I just setup my carbureted 2056 with 123Ignition distributor and cannot get it started.

Basics: Compression is good, new dual carbs and there is spark.

I have read several methods of setting static timing,

Method 1: 123 manual says set timing marks at 0 TDC and turn distributor till light turns green, I did that, no Joy.

Method 2: Set timing marks at 7.5 BTDC and turn distributor till light turns green, I did that, it sounded more like it wanted to start but no joy.

Should I continue to advance the timing?

[jim_hoyland]

Call Ed at 1-2-3
(440) 668-8164

He’s the guru

[wbgoggans]

Call Ed at 1-2-3
(440) 668-8164

He’s the guru

I recently installed my ignition 123 using method number 1. I have not taken my motor off the stand yet so can't confirm whether or not that is correct. I am told it's import to rotate the dizzy the opposite direction of how the rotor will rotate while running when you are looking for the greenlight. our motors rotate clockwise so you would rotate your dizzy counter clockwise until you see the greenlight. Please keep us updated if you find a solution. would be cool to start an ignition 123 troubleshooting thread.

[FlacaProductions]

Yup. Install and rotate counter-clockwise juuuuust until the green light comes on.

Lots of us have worked thru this - keep us posted with details. You'll get it. It's worth it.

[Robarabian]

What Flaca said... you don't just turn it... align the rotor to the #1 plug wire while at TDC. Then power it up. turn COUNTER CLOCKWISE until the light turns green. Back it off till it turns off and then back to "just turning green." you want to be just at that edge of it turns on. You then push the rotor (not the whole dizzy) slightly clockwise (the direction the rotor turns) and make sure it stays green while you snug down the dizzy. You are static.

[dtmehall]

not to be a dinosaur, but this is a very similar procedure to the one described in 'How to keep your Volkswagen Alive' book by John Muir.

[SteveNMaine]

I have the 123/TUNE+4-R-V-POR What should I be programming in for advance? Maybe that is the issue?

[FlacaProductions]

Here's a note I have saved from Ian concerning setup that might help you: http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?s=&...t&p=3110141


Jake Raby taught me a simple method. First, follow the directions for installation, which will get you to a point where the car runs. Set a curve point for 8 degrees @ 1K RPM, a point for 27 degrees @ 3000 rpm and a point for 27 degrees at 5K. Load that curve into the 123 distributor. Then hook up a timing light, cap off the vac advance and rev the engine to 3K RPM. I like to aim at the notch on the flywheel. Rotate the 123 until you’re showing 27 degrees BTDC @3K and then lock the unit down. The app and dizzy are now synched and you’ve approximated a simple stock curve. Now the fun begins. Drive around and see if there are any flat spots in acceleration. Make note of the rpm’s where the power seems to dip. Add points there to fine tune the advance. You’ll probably need a little more advance a little earlier. You may also need to tweak your idle advance a bit until it runs smoothly. Of course the condition of your engine, altitude and a bunch of other factors come into play.