The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Mechanical timing

Ok folks, I admit it, I'm a basic wrench-turner. In an earlier post, I asked a question that involved timing. I was advised to check both my mechanical and electrical timing. Now I just disconnect the Vac, and turn the Dist to set timing. Can someone please explain the differance? And Don't Let My Wife See This Post! She thinks I know everything about this ol' truck, and I don't want her to lose her innocence!

In the base of your distributor is the mechanical advance. It consists of two centrifugally operated weights with springs. As the reveolutions of the distributor increase, your advance curve changes. The only adjustment on this is to replace the weights and springs. Here's a good link on what to do.
Ignition timing explained

Disconnect the vac advance line at the carb and take a small piece of rubber hose with a bolt stuck in one end to plug the carb. This way you know that only the mechanical advance or baseline timing will be set. I would suggest If you haven't yet done a search on this web site for "ignition timing" set the search to all fields. There is a wealth of info here to walk you thru this very important procedure. Remember we are here for you if you get stuck.
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