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Can't set timing!

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Old 08-28-2014, 08:14 PM
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Car: 87 GTA Trans Am
Engine: 5.7 350 TPI
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Can't set timing!

I bought the car with a msd 6al box and I want to set the timing and evertine I disconnect the est wire to set the timing it stalls. I read on other forums that people have the same problem but no solution. If anything I would like to get the wire diagram for the stock setup coil wiring so I can check the timing and just plug the msd box back in
Thank you
Old 08-29-2014, 12:08 AM
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Re: Can't set timing!

Also I don't have a hei distributor I have the 2 plug on the back and a msd blaster coil
Old 08-29-2014, 02:08 PM
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Re: Can't set timing!

Anyone??
Old 08-29-2014, 03:37 PM
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Re: Can't set timing!

No experience with the MSD...but, is it possible base timing is so far out, she stalls?

Try pulling #1 plug, finger over the hole rotate engine until air is felt coming out the plug hole, continue until mark on balancer is a few degrees before TDC...pull the cap and make sure the rotor is very near #1 plug wire to fire.
Old 08-29-2014, 03:52 PM
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Re: Can't set timing!

you could check it by using a advance timing light at 2k RPM. or use timing tape.
Old 08-29-2014, 05:42 PM
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Re: Can't set timing!

Another thought, unplug the connector, hook your timing light up, have a friend try to start the car...should still be trying to fire at 6 BTDC, whether running or not.
Old 08-29-2014, 10:16 PM
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Re: Can't set timing!

Originally Posted by BASSETT IROC 85
you could check it by using a advance timing light at 2k RPM. or use timing tape.
If I keep my foot on the gas pedal it's stays running at 2000 rpm but what should it read at 2000rpm? 6 btdc?

This sound like a good idea too
Old 08-29-2014, 10:18 PM
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Re: Can't set timing!

Originally Posted by BASSETT IROC 85
you could check it by using a advance timing light at 2k RPM. or use timing tape.
Originally Posted by 8Mike9
Another thought, unplug the connector, hook your timing light up, have a friend try to start the car...should still be trying to fire at 6 BTDC, whether running or not.
This sounds like a great idea too but will I be able to turn the distributor is it needs too be set to 6 btdc? Meaning can I set it at 6 btdc with out the car running?
Old 08-29-2014, 10:36 PM
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Re: Can't set timing!

What you are doing by revving the engine up is running all the advance out. Total Timing should be around 35 degrees. Thats why you need a advance timing light or timing tape. By using the timing tape you can mark 360 degrees on your balancer. An Advance light will allow you to shoot at 0 degrees then read the timing on the dial. There should be a thread or video on the net somewhere.
Old 08-29-2014, 11:20 PM
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Re: Can't set timing!

http://www.setyourtiming.com/video.html
Old 08-30-2014, 12:30 PM
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Re: Can't set timing!

Originally Posted by BASSETT IROC 85
What you are doing by revving the engine up is running all the advance out. Total Timing should be around 35 degrees. Thats why you need a advance timing light or timing tape. By using the timing tape you can mark 360 degrees on your balancer. An Advance light will allow you to shoot at 0 degrees then read the timing on the dial. There should be a thread or video on the net somewhere.
Ok I have the advance timing light

So let me make sure

Have someone in th car rev the engine up to 2k and hold it or just adjust the idle screw to 2k

Then the timing should be at 35 degree

I'm right? Lol
Old 08-30-2014, 03:13 PM
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Re: Can't set timing!

Originally Posted by Brianbajnuth
Ok I have the advance timing light

So let me make sure

Have someone in th car rev the engine up to 2k and hold it or just adjust the idle screw to 2k

Then the timing should be at 35 degree

I'm right? Lol
Yes. Did you watch the video I posted? You can do it by yourself if you want to under the hood. Fry burger did a better job than me of explaining.
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