I don't have a timing light so I know, I know, I shouldn't guess. But I did. I saw that the base of the distributor was at the factory "scatch" mark so I advanced (counterclockwise) it about 3/32". Will someone give me a guess how many degrees that might be? Oh, I have an 83 LG4.

BTW, It feels quicker. Could be my imagination.

thanks,
phil

 

there is no factory scratch mark, you're guessing if you don't have a light and so is anyone else that trys to figure out where you're at.

 

Well my 91 Caprice 5.0L had a "factory scatch/cut" across the distributor base and the intake. So I figured that the scatch/cut on my 83 was factory as well. Maybe not. ...and I agree it would be a guess how many degrees 3/32" would be, that is why i ask if some of you experienced engine guys could tell me NOT where my timing is set, BUT rather if you advance it 3/32" from a mark on the distributor base, approximately how many degrees would that advance the timing.

phil

 

Well you can figure it out yourself. Measure the diameter of the distributor cap and use the formula circ = dia*pi = 360 degrees, then take your 3/32 and divide by the circ and multiply by 360 degrees, this will tell you how many degrees 3/32" is. Get it.

 

There is no way to really figure out what it is at other than with a timing light. If there ever was a factory scratch mark, the wear on the timing components would make it inaccurate to use.
Keep in mind if you are looking to get a certain amount of degrees, when you do use a timing light it has to be double checked after you lock down the distributor as it has a tendancy to move when you are tightening it down.
Good Luck!