Timing adjustment based on datalog

[OzzmosisDSM]

Is it possible to adjust the timing on a 1g based on a datalog? When I datalog my car I am getting 11 degrees of timing at idle, on 1gs I believe base timing should be around 5 degrees. Can I adjust the timing based on this number? The reason I'm asking is because I don't have a timing light, nor do I know how to use one and it would be pretty simple to adjust timing while datalogging at idle.

 

[steve]

No, the timing reported by the datalogger is what the ECU thinks the timing is based on the assumption that the CAS is correctly set. So if you move the CAS going only by the datalogger what you see will be changes the ECU makes in advance due to the RPM changing but the ECU still thinks the CAS is locked onto 5 degrees Before Top Dead Center.

Timing lights are cheap and required to correctly set the base timing. Using it is pretty simple.
http://www.plymouthlaser.com/timin.htm

You don't need a fancy one. The basic Craftsman inductive light will do the job for $35
http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/product.do?BV_UseBVCookie=Yes&vertical=TOOL&pid=00902137000

Steve

 

[OzzmosisDSM]

Thanks for the info, I'll have to pick up a timing light soon or just find someone to borrow from.