Static timing question Options

[ricardo]

I'm trying to set the initial timing on my car prior to setting dwell and adjust using strobe light.
What is the easiest way to turn the engine over to static time everything?

[ricardo]

Removed distributor and replaced points and condenser. Now i'm trying to static set the timing using a test light on the primary distributor and rotating the distributor.
The test light does not light even when I rotate the dist. about 60 degrees.
Any answers

[stugray]

Removed distributor and replaced points and condenser. Now i'm trying to static set the timing using a test light on the primary distributor and rotating the distributor.
The test light does not light even when I rotate the dist. about 60 degrees.
Any answers

The test light + should be connected to the neg side of the coil opposite the IGN wire.
This is the same terminal on the coil that the points wire goes to.

The test light - is connected to engine case ground


When the points are open the light should come on
When the points are closed, the light should go off.

If you have the light connected right and it is not turning ON, then the points are closed all the time.
If you did not get the base of the points engaged correctly with the base of the dizzy, they might not be sitting correctly.
Take the cap off and watch while you do this.

You dont need the cap or any of the coil wires to do this test.

If you put the test light + on the IGN side of the coil, does it turn on?

[old dog]

Removed distributor and replaced points and condenser. Now i'm trying to static set the timing using a test light on the primary distributor and rotating the distributor.
The test light does not light even when I rotate the dist. about 60 degrees.
Any answers

The test light + should be connected to the neg side of the coil opposite the IGN wire.
This is the same terminal on the coil that the points wire goes to.

The test light - is connected to engine case ground


When the points are open the light should come on
When the points are closed, the light should go off.

If you have the light connected right and it is not turning ON, then the points are closed all the time.
If you did not get the base of the points engaged correctly with the base of the dizzy, they might not be sitting correctly.
Take the cap off and watch while you do this.

You dont need the cap or any of the coil wires to do this test.

If you put the test light + on the IGN side of the coil, does it turn on?

I think I'm missing something here...Is the ignition on to provide power ? +12 volts. Sticking the test light onto the + of the battery and the points side of the coil will give you a light when the points are closed and the light goes out when the points open and no need to have the key turned on.