Setting Base Timing Using Cam Gears

[TalonJohn94]

So I read through this trick in the tech section. My only question is what orientation of the cam gear timing marks equates to 5 degrees advanced?

Put another way, how much timing advance is each tooth?

Btw, Im thinking you want the exhaust gear one tooth counterclockwise from the intake gear timing mark but thats kind of just a guess.

Thanks for the help

 

[jlr2196]

You have to use an adjustable dial type timing light, you simply turn the dial to 5* on the timing light then aim at the cam gears & adjust until the two cam gear marks line up.
The only way to truely know how many degrees one tooth on the cam gear makes is to degree the engine. Don't over think it.
Using the cam gears to set your timing is, imo, the only way to go.

 

[bryanwheat]

Are we talking about ignition timing or valve timing?

 

[TalonJohn94]

Ignition timing.

And yeah, jlr2196, thats a good point about the adjustable timing light. My timing light is not adjustable, I just thought I could eyeball it. As you probably know, the flashing is synchronized almost perfect with the valve timing marks and makes everything looks like its not moving.

Just thought there might be a rule of thumb such as one tooth counterclockwise or something. And I don't know if a couple degrees of base timing is worth buying a new timing light right now.

 

[Tyeler18]

If I remember a non adjustable is 1 tooth counterclockwise on the exhaust like you said. My lights adjustable though.

 

[bryanwheat]

Ignition timing.

And yeah, jlr2196, thats a good point about the adjustable timing light. My timing light is not adjustable, I just thought I could eyeball it. As you probably know, the flashing is synchronized almost perfect with the valve timing marks and makes everything looks like its not moving.

Just thought there might be a rule of thumb such as one tooth counterclockwise or something. And I don't know if a couple degrees of base timing is worth buying a new timing light right now.

Why are you even thinking about messing with the cams to adjust ignition timing. The ignition base timing is adjusted with the cam angle sensor. Messing with the cams is just going to result in the car running bad and possibly bent valves. You also don't need an adjustable timing light.