Lets clarify dist timing a bit etc

["mike sutton" <mikanlin62@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi all

For those who already know this, sorry, but for those who arent sure, heres
a tip:

Dont worry about trying to figure out if your distributor turns clockwise
( small block ) or counterclockwise ( big block ) when youre adjusting your
distributor timing.  Its not a big deal if you cant remember, just pop the
cap off and see what way the rotor will rotate a few degrees by hand..(.it
will rotate a few degrees unless its a locked out unit a'la Lean Burn )

Turning the distributor body IN THE DIRECTION of rotor rotation will retard
the timing.  Turning AGAINST THE ROTATION will advance the timing.   If you
notice, the vacuum advance is also mounted offset to the distributor body
and you can reference to that as well, with the advance retards..against the
advance advances.

I know this seems silly to post, but you would be surprised how many times
I have simply reset timing or put plug wires back in the correct order for
people over the years.  Also, like it was already posted..cleaning off the
marks, dabbing some white paint or similar on the mark and on the balancer
is VERY helpful, and yes...UNPLUG the vacuum advance and plug the hose if
need be.

Have fun....I will leave figuring out which one is # 1 for a later date!

Mikey
62 Crown Coupe

p.s.  The 59 with the suspect bad valve, weak valve or burnt valve...if it
really was  seriously burnt or bad, it probably wouldnt go away at different
times and places.  Imho, the mechanic is kinda flaking on that one!