The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Timing Light

What do you use for a timing light to time your engine? Mine died, only took 45 years to do so. I need one that will handle both 6 and 12 volt systems.

Actually, I don't. I set the "BB" on the pointer. Adjust the dizzy until the points just open. Start and use a vacuum gauge. Adjust for max vacuum and back off a bit. Test drive for "pinging" and adjust if needed. Vacuum gauge works both 6 and 12 volts..:) For later year stuff like my 67 with timing marks on the damper pulley, Sears has one that is not too expensive. But I don't know if it will work at 6 volts. I am sure there are lights that work on 6 volts. Google it and see what you find.

Some of the old sears and actron units were okay.

I use a small 12V battery (specifically a motorcycle battery) to power my Snap-on digital timing light with the RPM function and a delay flash for checking timing advance, and use the inductive probe on the spark plug wire to trigger the flash. You don't necessarily need to use vehicle power to run the timing light electronics. If the output is erratic, use a jumper wire from the vehicle frame to the auxiliary battery negative terminal to provide a common ground. My digital volts-ampere tester works the same way.
Jerry

I have a cheap Wallyworld 12v light that works just fine on my 6v '38. It isn't as bright as it is on 12v but it works fine.

I don't know about 6 V,either,(follow Hotrod Lincoln's advice),but I bought a cheepie from Harbor Freight. I took advice,and Taped the trigger,prior to laying it on the starter. Impossible,for me), to aim the light,and turn the dizzy,at the same time. Much easier to lay the light on the starter,aim at timing hole,hook it,(timing light) up,loosen the distributor,just enough to turn it. If you have a vacuum gauge,dis-connect the line at the bottom of your intake,plumb in your gauge,start the truck,and "Git 'er Done!! It tool me 15 minutes,to set-up the timing light,and vacuum gauge,set the air/fuel mixture,and set the timing! Check your manual. Some years call for 5 degrees B.T.D.C,some years call for 5 degrees after T.D.C.,and others call for T.D.C. Engine runs like new!

I picked up the cheapo advance auto parts that is folding and about 3" wide. It works on both 6v and 12v with no noticeable difference.

Rick, this is the one i picked up on sale from Amazon INNOVA 3555 Advance Timing Light

been very happy with it on my Antiques... Never an issue when running it on 6v either !!

The adjustable Dial is GREAT for getting the time JUST right, or finding out where it is set