Ignition timing adjustment after EI install.

[jjlanotte]

Hey folks,

SO I just fixed some spark/electrical problems I was having and followed up the fix by installing an pertronix electronic ignition. When I first installed it it stumbled quite a bit. I loosened the distributor and made small adjustments until the RPM at idle and full throttle were at roughly previous locations. I also checked to make sure that when I hit the throttle hard that it accelerated quickly. Right now it appears to be running great. My question is, what is the best way to finely tune the ignition timing other than using by the ear methods? Any advice or pointers would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

 

[boomer1025]

Get yourself a timing light.

 

[jjlanotte]

Is there a procedure somewhere for using a timing light on it? Manual says to see MF dealer. Its a perkins 3 cyl gas.

 

[pmsmechanic]

You can also use a test light. Hook it up to the posts on the coil. When the light goes on the points/pertronix are open. At that point the timing marks on the front of the engine should be close. I don't know where the timing marks are exactly but someone should know and speak up.

You can also set by ear as you have done. I like to advance the ignition till I hear pinging and then back off. If a hot motor "kicks" against the starter then it's time to back off the timing a bit too.

 

[jjlanotte]

I had to adjust it by ear. When I first put it in it started nicely but stumbled a lot and wasn't getting up to RPM. I loosened the distributor and went WOT, I moved it to the point where I was able to get 2200+ RPM and then when it started to bog down I backed it up. It seems to be running fine but I dont trust it long term. Im all for buying a timing light as I just purchased a 67 f250 that Im certain I can use it on as well. I just have no idea where on the MF135 to shine the light...

 

[jjlanotte]

UPDATE: I bought a timing light, Innova 5568 Pro-Timing Light with Tool Case. Can someone please tell me where I am supposed to point the light on the perkins gas?

 

[boomer1025]

UPDATE: I bought a timing light, Innova 5568 Pro-Timing Light with Tool Case. Can someone please tell me where I am supposed to point the light on the perkins gas?

Maybe the front crankshaft pulley/damper or on the flywheel.

 

[WranglerX]

Electronic modules time same as points.... Problem may be just finding timing specs for your engine....

Found this...

Perkins 3 Cyl. Gas Timing Specs - Yesterday's Tractors

Dale

 

[jjlanotte]

I found it in the Service Manual.

" To check ignition timing, use a timing light attached to No. 1 cylinder and an electric tachometer. Start the engine and direct the light to the timing hole in the flywheel housing. Carefully move the throttle lever to WOT position (2225-2275 rpm) and observe the timing readings. With the engine properly timed and the distributor advance mechanism operating properly, the timing should gradually increase to a reading of 26* BTDC at 2000 rpm without any further advance above this speed. Advance, or ******, timing if necessary by loosening the distributor clamp and turning the distributor body. Turing in the direction of rotation of the rotor to ******, and against the direction of rotation to advance. Clamp distributor when correct setting is found."

So there it is. Looks like my light should be good since it also includes tach features. Now I just need to locate the hole in the flywheel housing.

 

[jjlanotte]

Found it. A rubber plug.