Timing a california spec (1977) Distributor

[vtsteve]

I've attempted to find the timing procedure specific to a 1977 CA Spec Distributor. The link below indicates that I have a CA Spec (Advance + Retard vacuum ports) on my distributor. I'll attach a photo of it as a reply to this thread below.

1) When setting timing, do I disconnect (& Plug) both the advance & retard lines, or only the advance?

2) Can someone tell me where (I assume on the underside) the bolt is to loosen the distributor for rotating/adjusting advance?

3) Can someone point me in the right direction of explaining a "Semi Electronic" distributor? I know points systems very well but don't understand what semi-electronic implies?

4) Does this also have mechanical advance in weights & springs?

Other than this, I'm very comfortable in setting the timing.

 

[vtsteve]

I've attempted to find the timing procedure specific to a 1977 CA Spec Distributor. The link below indicates that I have a CA Spec (Advance + Retard vacuum ports) on my distributor. I'll attach a photo of it as a reply to this thread below.

1) When setting timing, do I disconnect (& Plug) both the advance & retard lines, or only the advance?

2) Can someone tell me where (I assume on the underside) the bolt is to loosen the distributor for rotating/adjusting advance?

3) Can someone point me in the right direction of explaining a "Semi Electronic" distributor? I know points systems very well but don't understand what semi-electronic implies?

4) Does this also have mechanical advance in weights & springs?

Other than this, I'm very comfortable in setting the timing.

Dizzy FAQ - http://www.globalsoftware-inc.com/coolerman/fj40/DizzyFaq.htm (where I determined I have a CA spec)

 

[vtsteve]

Dizzy FAQ - http://www.globalsoftware-inc.com/coolerman/fj40/DizzyFaq.htm (where I determined I have a CA spec)

Advance = BLUE; Retard = RED

 

[dmaddox]

1) Correct (both lines)
2) There is the tab against the block holding the distributor in place (not that one) and there is one on the shaft just above that (10mm) that you can loosen to pivot the distributor.
3) How the current travels (through a ballast resistor vs an ignitor). "For the 76-77 model years, instead of a ballast resistor an "ignitor" is used. The ignitor is simply a current amplifier triggered by the points so that the current that goes through the coil comes from the ignitor instead of the points. In 1978-up the ignition is fully electronic, the distributor uses a magnet passing by as it rotates to generate an electronic pulse, which is amplified by the ignitor to cause current to flow through the coil." (from Rising Sun/Jeff Zepp)
4) Look inside under the dust cover, you'll be able to see if yours does or not.

Last, if you're in VA, setting on the "BB" at 7 degrees BTDC assuming no vacuum leaks, you'll be good to go.

 

[vtsteve]

1) Correct (both lines)
2) There is the tab against the block holding the distributor in place (not that one) and there is one on the shaft just above that (10mm) that you can loosen to pivot the distributor.
3) How the current travels (through a ballast resistor vs an ignitor). "For the 76-77 model years, instead of a ballast resistor an "ignitor" is used. The ignitor is simply a current amplifier triggered by the points so that the current that goes through the coil comes from the ignitor instead of the points. In 1978-up the ignition is fully electronic, the distributor uses a magnet passing by as it rotates to generate an electronic pulse, which is amplified by the ignitor to cause current to flow through the coil." (from Rising Sun/Jeff Zepp)
4) Look inside under the dust cover, you'll be able to see if yours does or not.

Last, if you're in VA, setting on the "BB" at 7 degrees BTDC assuming no vacuum leaks, you'll be good to go.

Thank you for reply. Great info and I appreicate it.