Is it better to set the point gap to spec or set the gap to whatever is required to get the dwell correct within spec?

Why would the dwell be off if the gap is set to spec?

 

Get the dwell correct. The gap shouldn't be too far out at this setting.
The cam in the dizzy controls the dwell period. If the dizzy shaft/bearings are worn and there is side to side movement in it, this can cause the dwell to vary and cause "spark scatter". Put a timing light on it with vacuum to dizzy disconnected and watch where the timing mark is. It shouldn't vary much at all. If it is jumping around, you have wear somewhere, or even a bent shaft.

You haven't got a 3rd gen with points in it have you?

Andy.

 

yep set the dwell to spec the gap doesn't matter near as much as the dwell does. damn i'd hate to guess at the last time i put points in a car engine, mid 80s i bet.

 

could someone explain how point work (to give me a refresher and some of the younger members an explenation)

 

they're just a contact set the run along a cam (8 sided for v8, 6 sided for 6s etc) when they're on the high point of the cam they open making and breaking the eletric circuit.

 

Thanks for the replys. I thought dwell might trump gap.

Getting the points to the highest position on the cam proved to be a real PITA.

The points aren't in a thirdgen. They are in a '71 Landcruiser.