which timing light/tachometer should I get? (1 Viewer)

[LoneRanger]

OK.
Got my ND plugs today and I'm getting set to do timing and idle adjusment for the first time.
problem is I have to get a timing light and tachometer and I've heard differing accounts of what is best/necessary.
should I get the cheepo from harborfright or go with one with more dials and buttons from elsewhere.

which sort of tachometer is best?

would greatly appreciate some input.

bh

 

[beaufort-fj60]

are you talking about the under hood portable tach? i got mine at carquest. i think it was 20 or 25 bucks and it was called a dwell tach or something like that

 

[AACruiser]

I really like my timing light with an advance knob! The advance adjustment is helpful for finding the mark in that little window. I think it is Equus or Innova, bought it at Checker Auto and it had a rebate. It was a little more expensive, maybe $70.

Andy

 

[LoneRanger]

are you talking about the under hood portable tach?

yes. I suppose the alternative is to install one in the dash?

 

[jwest]

Just out of personal preference, i like the non adjustable lights where there's absolutely no risk from an adjuster losing accuracy or being slightly off. Unless maybe it's a snapon.

.

 

[beaufort-fj60]

yes. I suppose the alternative is to install one in the dash?

some people mount a second tach under the hood, more of a street rod thing.

 

[Tinker]

Sears has a timing light with advance adjustment - no problems with accuracy.

 

[AACruiser]

I forgot that I chose to buy an adjustable timing light that is controlled by push buttons, and not by a rotating knob that could easily get bumped and misadjusted.

Andy

 

[LoneRanger]

thanks for all the input. i'm more confused than ever.

 

[beaufort-fj60]

to answer your original question:
don't sweat it, buy the harbor fright portable tach and timing light.

If you take care of your tools, buy the best ones you can find. I still have the cheapo timing light I bought 18 years ago. My plan back then was, I'll get this one and when it breaks I'll get the good one.