Ignition Timing with Photos
 

I know this has been covered dozens of times, maybe someone new can benefit from some photos because the question gets asked and answered a lot. It's one of the things that I had trouble with initially myself.

On my 147 the timing marks are on the back of the flywheel and can only be seen through a hole on the back side located under the starter/generator. In the photo, the white wires are bolted to the S/G mounting bolt. Initially, I couldn't actually see the marks through the crud. So I set up the timing apparatus (a pair of test leads and a wedge base 12-volt bulb) and rolled the motor around 'till the mark should be in the hole. The "S" mark became visible by cleaning the area with a common pencil eraser and was made easier to see by scrubbing with some chalk and the eraser again.

I take out the spark plug to make rolling it by hand easier. The light bulb couldn't be easier to do - I've seen packages of test leads at autoparts stores so they aren't difficult to find. I prefer a wedge base bulb since the gater clips will stay connected. One lead is connected to the battery ground and one side of the bulb and the other lead is connected to the other side of the bulb and the points side of the coil. When the points are closed the bulb is out, when the points are open the bulb is on. I position the bulb so it can be easily seen from both sides since the peep hole is on the opposite side from the points cover.

Normally, I'll just hit it with the timing light and check it's on. That's about the only thing I use the timing light for these days!

Hope that helps someone new to these handy little machines.

This is the same procedure as outlined in our tech section:
http://www.onlycubcadets.net/forum/s...ad.php?t=33461

My only question is why rig up a bare bulb with alligator clips when you could use a test light? They are a simple, cheap tool available most anywhere. Walmart even has them....

I know it's in the tech section but the observation hole is in a different place on mine - had a hard time finding it because it's behind and below the starter. The mods are welcome to delete it if it's unwanted.

Had the bulb and leads on hand and I don't have to hold it like I do a test light. I've also been known to use the DVM.

I've been known to just turn the test light around, use the alligator clip end on the points or coil, and stick the pointed end in the battery post. Or vise-grip it, whatever works. Ta Da, hands free...