VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - 1945 AND NEWER 1949-1954 how to set timing

54 235 ...how do I set timing? I did like the manual says to set the octane thing at zero...do I have to loosen the screw that holds the vac. adv. on so I can turn the dist.? Also on the flywheel the is the dot and on one side is an A and the other side something else....which way do I go? Thanks Virg

Hey, Virg...You didn't mention if you've checked your points or point gap...If you have a Dwell meter check them, it's a good place to start ( in general ) should be 32-36 degrees...

Next loosen up the screw/bolt behind the distributor just enough so you can turn it...

Start your engine / attach timing light if you have one...

Adjust timing to where it seems to be running well...grin

Take her for a test run...you'll know if you need to do some more "adjusting"...slight backfires, etc.

Good luck...Kevin

Set points with flat feeler gauge at .019 for new points and .016 for used points ... then check timing.

There is a dot on the flywheel (raised bump). Put some white-out on it. It should line up with the pointer on the bell housing.
Kevin is right--make sure your point gap is set first using feeler gauges. You'll find the sweet spot when she purrs. Set your idle speed before you time it.

You can use a 12volt timing light and analyzer as long as you have a 12v battery to hook em to. Summit Racing sells a battery operated light (flashlight batteries).

I...Don't think it matters with the "analyzer", as long as it's set to "6 cylinder"...At least I don't have a problem with mine.

kevin...do you mean loosen the bolt that holds te dist. down or the screw that holds the vac adv on? Virg
I have new points set at about 20

I would first check point gap as suggested, then set the distributor octane adjustment a 0, adjust idle to suggested idle speed, then time the car to factory specs. It is not neccessary to unplug the vacumn advance if the intake system is stock. Once the factory setting is reached then one can use the Octane selector to fine tune the car.

Hi, Virg I meant the "screw that hold the vacuum advance to the distributor...Most of us 'round these parts run the timing a might more advanced than the "book"...Funny, I always adjust my "idle" last...

You're right. If you'd prefer you can use an analyzer. Dwell is 38-45 on a '54 std trans according to the "poor man's off chassis .com site. Since these distributors don't have the nice window like the later model gms, you still have to pop the cap off and set the point gap with feeler gage. The dwell will let you know you're in the right ballpark.

The ole standby feeleer gauge will take you into the ball park and to your seat behind the dugout.