Cruiser Jimmy
Moderator
Many threads have been raised regarding how to time a 3FE motor. Many have contributed to the cause of helping a fellow MUD'er out when in need but I have not run across an illustrated thread. Well, you can thank our current Moderator [Ken Romer] for asking someone to post up some 3FE threads to add to the FAQ's for us 3FE guys. So here goes.
0. Warm up the engine to operating temperature.
1. Loosen the bolt that holds the distributor. Don't remove the bolt.
2. Monitor the engine idle RPM. Idle rpm should be 650 rpm. The tach in the dash cluster can be used to monitor the rpm's but the FSM states that you should connect a tachometer test prove to terminal [IG] on the diagnostic's box.
3. In the diagnostic box, use a small diameter piece of wire and connect Terminal TE1 and E1. Recheck the rpm's.
4. Connect a timing light to number 1 cylinder spark plug lead.
5. Aim the timing light at the back of the engine on the passengers side as in Pic 2. Turn the distributor so that you see the large circle align with the small wire probe. You'll see the circle move back and forth as you move the distributor. This is what the FSM calls for timing, when the large circle and the wire mark are aligned, it's 7º BTDC.
Pic 1: Diagnostic box showing terminal TE1 and E1 connected.
Pic 2: Location of timing access view whole.
Pic 3: Shows the timing mark and TDC mark. The large circle is the 7º Before Top Dead Center (BTDC). The two small circles are Top Dead Center (TDC).
Good luck.
0. Warm up the engine to operating temperature.
1. Loosen the bolt that holds the distributor. Don't remove the bolt.
2. Monitor the engine idle RPM. Idle rpm should be 650 rpm. The tach in the dash cluster can be used to monitor the rpm's but the FSM states that you should connect a tachometer test prove to terminal [IG] on the diagnostic's box.
3. In the diagnostic box, use a small diameter piece of wire and connect Terminal TE1 and E1. Recheck the rpm's.
4. Connect a timing light to number 1 cylinder spark plug lead.
5. Aim the timing light at the back of the engine on the passengers side as in Pic 2. Turn the distributor so that you see the large circle align with the small wire probe. You'll see the circle move back and forth as you move the distributor. This is what the FSM calls for timing, when the large circle and the wire mark are aligned, it's 7º BTDC.
Pic 1: Diagnostic box showing terminal TE1 and E1 connected.
Pic 2: Location of timing access view whole.
Pic 3: Shows the timing mark and TDC mark. The large circle is the 7º Before Top Dead Center (BTDC). The two small circles are Top Dead Center (TDC).
Good luck.
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