Timing with electronic ignition

[chrisgriffiths]

Hi Everyone,

We've just completed a 400 mile round trip coast to coast in 'Mable' and I noticed that the engine seemed to be pulling a bit on the return journey.
I thought I would check her timing using the 'static bulb' method then I remembered that I've fitted an electronic ignition in the dizzy and was wondering if having electronic ignition as opposed to points would the bulb method work.
I'm not sure how the electronic system operates. Last time I did it by ear but was going to try this system this time.
Also just as a point of interest when the timing is too far advanced you get 'pinking' but what are the symptoms if the timing is too far retarded.
Mable completed the coats to coast run in grand style by the way

Cheers everyone

Chris

[bmcecosse]

What would you set it to? Some random setting from 40 years ago?? 'By ear' is the best way to do it - for best/smoothest idle - then check of course for 'not pinking'.

[simmitc]

No, the static bulb method won't work with electronic ignition. With points, you could turn the engine slowly until the po8ints "just" opened. With electronic units, the engine has to be turning fast enough to trigger the unit, and a slow pass of the trigger over the pickup will not work.

[chrisgriffiths]

OK Cheers

[bmcecosse]

If you think the timing has 'gone off a bit' - then test the vacuum advance to make sure it's working as it should - and the mechanical advance, although it is v reliable....unless perhaps bone dry/no oil ?