Recommended tune up procedure, How do you do yours? Options

[Engman]

Well, it is time to get the teener out again - retaged it today! But before I make it the nearly every day driver I want to do a tune up. What is the consensus of what should be done first , second etc.

I had planned

1. timing
2. no need to do dwell as it is a Crane XR700 unit
3. plug gaps
4. valves
5. idle set

M

[garyh]

Valves 1st; you want the engine cold.

Take the plugs out while you do the valves; makes it easier.

I replace plugs rather than re-gap them. If they're worn to the point where the gap has changed, it's time. (And I always use a torque wrench on the plugs.)

Warm the engine up, then check the timing and idle speed. Snoop for vacuum leaks while it warms up.

After the timing is checked (if the timing moves when you have a XR700 or Pertronix, think about worrying... ) drain the oil.

Replace all filters.

Then drive the darm thing!