V8 guys...how do you set timing?, Can't see the timing mark... Options

[cobra94563]

Is there a easier way? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/confused24.gif)

[byndbad914]

I don't need to do this now that it is tube chassis - but the stock 901 has a notch in the housing where you set timing on a stock car from the flywheel. Find TDC with a mirror, etc on the balancer, then mark a stripe the new flywheel with some white paint at TDC. Buy a "dial back" timing light (the only real way to time a car IMO) and dial it to whatever timing you want.

Next time you won't have all the hassle, just dial in the total timing you want on the timing light, rev the engine up around 3K (you will see the mark stop moving in the light once you hit total - that may or may not be 3Krpm but should be around there) and put your white stripe on the zero mark at the flywheel. Dun.

I always set timing by total timing (running engine above 3000rpm with no vacuum advance) and then just check what it is at my idle setting "just to know". don't set initial advance - it is a BS number based on your idle rpm. Total is total regardless of how you idle the car.

My car is all-in, total timing of 36deg on race gas at 2800rpm for instance. I set it to 34 on pump gas to stop detonation (but lose 13-15HP too).