Re: [FWDLK] Timing a 331 Hemi

John described it well.

More modern ? Use a test light...

I would do the distributor while it is off the engine to set the point gap on a high

distributor cam lobe. It is easier than leaning over into the engine compartment.

Set the engine for number one cylinder at the top of compression stroke.

Put distributor in, and find the advance you want, like 7 to 10 degrees before top

dead center (BTDC). Put a test light from power source to the distributor and

rotate the distributor until the light goes out. That is when the contacts "open"

and when the coil should fire that spark plug.

Tom S southern Ohio

First you have to be sure you are on the compression stroke of the number one cylinder, either by feeling the air push out of the cylinder with something to cover the spark plug hole or by pulling the valve cover and watching the valves to be sure both are closed on number one when the timing mark lines up with 10 degrees or the correct timing for your engine. Once you have the timing mark lined up you can use cellophane off of a pack of cigarettes to put between the points which you will pull gently on while you turn the distributor opposite of rotation until the points release the cellophane and tighten the distributor bolt to lock the distributor in place. Of course you have to have the rotor pointing at number one and the distributor all the way in for this to work. You also want to be sure the points are gapped properly before you set the timing.

John McCann

Wilbur, Washington

Picture site:

http://community.webshots.com/user/metralla2

----- Original Message -----

From: Charles M. Deyoe Jr.

To: L-FORWARDLOOK@xxxxxxxxxxxxx

Sent: Tuesday, May 09, 2006 11:31 AM

Subject: [FWDLK] Timing a 331 Hemi

Hi Every one I am trying to start the 331 hemi I just had rebuilt and wanted to ask if anyone had any tricks to setting the timing with the engine not running to start me off. I read the book and it is confusing as to the proper way to do it. I think the book wants 10 Degs BTDC but if anyone has a more modern way of efficient way of doing it . I would appreciate the help. I have 3 weeks to have the car back together before the first car show of the season in Plattsburgh NY Thanks again for the help. Chuck Deyoe 1955 New Yorker

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