Advice on setting timing

[hanvyj]

Just put in a new distributor, so I'm trying to sort out the ignition timing.

I've gotten the car running an idling fine, but when I accelerate it jerks and bucks. I've tried twisting the distributor and trying again but I wasn't really very successful in either direction. I've heard there's not much point in using a timing light, but is there a certain methodology for getting a good place to start? How does everyone else go about getting decent timing?

Thanks

[bmcecosse]

Is it a NEW dizzy - or just 'another' one? Is the vacuum advance connected, and working as it should? If yes - then with the engine at working temperature - gently twist the dizzy back and forward to get the 'best' smoothest idle. Are you SURE you have the leads connected 1342 anticlockwise round the dizzy cap?

[hanvyj]

I'll check the leads order, knowing me I did it wrong!

It's one of those accuspark electronic ones, fingers crossed it will last a while.

[bmcecosse]

It's been known for leads to be wrong - it will 'idle' after a fashion - but of course horrible when revved up.......

[hanvyj]

Funnily enough it idled quite well somehow...

They are now 1342 and its still idling badly and still awful when revved.

[hanvyj]

Anticlockwise, 1342

[bmcecosse]

So - it's possible now that a plug has 'oiled' up, with the incorrect lead order.... . Inspect them! If all ok - now swing the dizzy back and forth till you get the smoothest idle.

[hanvyj]

Replaced the plugs, now running fine. Thanks a lot!

[bmcecosse]