Ignition timing

[markandsuefoss]

I have a 1971 Traveller and have a question about ignition timing. I see the Haynes manual recommends 3 or 5 degrees BTDC, but I have been recommended 8. Which is correct?

Thanks.

[simmitc]

The original settings were for petrol that was very different from that of today. For a 1098 engine, 3 degrees is a good starting point for the static timing - the engine will run well. You then need to very slowly advance the timing until you just start to hear pinking whne under load; and then retard the timing slightly until the pinking stops.

[philthehill]

The timing as quoted in the BMC manual is 3 degrees BTDC static and 6 degrees BTDC @ 600rpm with a strobe for a 10MA engine (1098cc with a 25D4 distributer)
Because of the difference in fuels from when the Minor was new - you should set the timing by setting to the basic setting and then advancing the ignition until the engine starts to pink under load and then retard the ignition until the pinking disappears.
No two engines are the same and the timing needs to be set for individual engines.

[markandsuefoss]

Hi both,
Thanks very much that explains the different settings people are using.

[JOWETTJAVELIN]

But, if it then struggles against the starter motor you've gone a bit too far!