Mechanical timing advance
This type of timing advance is also referred to as centrifugal timing advance. The amount of mechanical advance is dependent solely on the speed at which the distributor is rotating. In a 2-stroke engine, this is the same as engine RPM. In a 4-stroke engine, this is half the engine RPM.
Can incorrect timing cause a rough idle?
If ignition timing is incorrect, the car could run rough and often try to stall. You should be able to check your own ignition timing using a timing light.
What are the symptoms of timing being off?
When any changes are made to the engine of a car, the ignition timing is adjusted accordingly. If not, you could experience several problems with your engine with improper ignition timing like knocking, hard to start, increase fuel usage, overheating, and reduced power.
What will too much timing do?
Too much timing can cause serious engine damage, so it’s best to be an informed tuner. … If the spark occurs too late, the engine runs flat, makes less power, and may overheat.
Why is my car chugging in idle?
Along with faulty spark plugs, a build-up of dirt and grime is the likely cause of cars stuttering when idle. A clogged filter or fuel injection system can starve your engine of fuel or oxygen, causing your car to judder and shake.
Is it normal for a car to idle at 1000 RPM?
In most of today’s cars, an idle speed of 600 to 1000 RPMs is average. If your car is idling rough, though, it won’t feel smooth. … A cold-start rough idle, for example, may be caused for different reasons than a vehicle that idles rough only when the engine’s hot.
Why is my car revving high when I start it?
Common causes of high RPM excursion at start-up are typically: large vacuum leak, throttle plate stuck open, cruise control stepper motor stuck in one position; faulty throttle position sensor, and/or faulty idle air control motor or solenoid.
What should timing be at idle?
The timing can vary between 2 and 12 degrees BTDC, the recommended spark plugs are different and even the plug gaps vary. In most cases starting out with 12 degrees of initial advance is about right. The initial timing should be 4 degrees before top dead center (BTDC).
Should timing be advanced at idle?
Does advancing timing raise idle? Advance timing, and response increases, easier to start, more power(torque) off idle. Some engines use the vacuum advance to advance timing at idle. This allows the engine to be able to start without kicking back against the starter since the base timing is actually retarded slightly.
Is Pulling timing bad?
If your engine is reducing the ignition advance (pulling timing), you will be losing power. Too much advance is destructive to the engine (detonation).
How much initial timing is too much?
It depends on how much mechanical advance is in the distributor that you are using. If your initial is at least 12* after adjusting your total to 34*, I’d say you are in good shape.
What rpm do you set timing at?
Rev the engine past the point where your mechanical advance is fully engaged. (Usually, 3,000 – 3,500 rpm will do it.) Watch the timing mark on the harmonic balancer using the timing light. Rotate the distributor until the timing mark lines up at zero with the light.
How much horsepower is a degree of timing?
2-3 hp per degree is a good rule.
What can cause idle problems?
4 Common Reasons Why Your Engine May Be Idling Rough
- Vacuum Leak. Most vehicles have a maze of hoses throughout which create a vacuum for both fuel and air. …
- Spark Plugs. A rough idling engine can be caused by spark plugs or spark plug wires. …
- Dirty Fuel Injector. …
- Carburetor Problems.
Is 1500 rpm idle bad?
This is a perfectly normal occurrence. It is simply something your car needs to do so that it can start properly. You should not be concerned if your car jumps up to 1500 RPM and then shortly afterward goes back down to a normal 800 RPM.
What are signs of a bad spark plug?
What are the signs your Spark Plugs are failing?
- Engine has a rough idle. If your Spark Plugs are failing your engine will sound rough and jittery when running at idle. …
- Trouble starting. Car won’t start and you’re late for work… Flat battery? …
- Engine misfiring. …
- Engine surging. …
- High fuel consumption. …
- Lack of acceleration.
Is idling bad for your engine?
Ten seconds of idling can burn more fuel than turning off and restarting the engine. Plus, excessive idling can damage your engine’s components, including spark plugs, cylinders and exhaust systems. … Plus, driving – not idling – is the most effective way to warm up your engine anyway.
What causes RPM to fluctuate while idling?
Why does my engine’s RPM seem to fluctuate (runs rough)?
Engine hunting and surging at idle is usually caused by a fuel delivery, air leak, or governor system problem. Cleaning/overhauling the carburettor, adjustment of the governor, and/or changing the air filer may be required.
What causes low idle RPM?
When you notice your car idling low, suspect three common sources of trouble: Faulty or clogged idle air control valve. Vacuum leaks. Ignition system problems.
Will timing cause engine to run rich?
Will timing cause engine to run rich? A well timed ignition will allow the engine to run powerfully and efficiently. The timing needs adjustment when the engine runs too lean or too rich.
Can you set timing without a timing light?
to set your base timing without a light, you just turn the motor over in it’s normal direction of rotation until the mark lines up with where you want it.. loosen up the distributor and hook up a spare spark plug to the #1 plug wire.. turn the distributor until it sparks..
What happens when engine timing is off?
If the timing is off, damage can occur. In some engines, called “interference engines,” the consequences can be especially bad. … You could end up having to have your engine rebuilt, or even replaced. If your cam timing is off, chances are you’ll know because your car will not be running well, if it’s running at all.