Forum

[PeteF]

There's no real chance of measuring .8mm BTDC with that tool. Even a dial indicator isn't going to work very well due to the rotational angle of the crank being so big in relation to the piston movement when so close to TDC.
The "correct" way of setting the timing is with a strobe and degree disc but I've always managed with the "nudge it and try" method.
The tool is useful to get the timing near enough to start and run, then just do it by feel and how much it want's to backfire. Just mark the points plate so you know where you started.
All these fairly crude engines are different anyway so the quoted figures are only a guess.

[stinkwheel]

Assuming it's a standard sparkplug, yes, there is an extra bit that screws on the top because there are two styles of plug cap. It should unscrew easily with a pair of pliers to reveal the threaded section you are expecting to see.



A new plug is always a good idea if you're having engine or ignition problems.

[Alan R]

Hi guys----------- To Boldly go where no Enfield has been before ??----------

[Alan R]

Oh dear !!!-------------I'm very sorry about that...almost full size, eh ??

[Alan R]

Im as per Stinkwheel and Co. regarding setting the ignition at full advance, using the locking tool etc........Don't forget that the plug hole itself is at an angle to the piston crown so you'll never get a truly accurate reading with that height tool either....I use an old screwdriver with the blade rounded off and then gently inserted with the shank held vertical....Mark-off the TDC position and then your ign. timing figure which must be BELOW it

..Con.rod angularity is the cause of that difficulty experienced at the top end of the piston's travel............Have a look at this}--------

[Felix]

Using the Hichcock TDC tool, I set my 2000 Bullet at 1mm BTDC and my bike starts first kick and purrs.
I'm sure we are all aware that the Hitchcock timing instructions describe setting a mark 0.8mm ABOVE the tdc mark which is obviously a mistake!

[Alan R]

Not so Felix, not so---my mistake I'm afraid....That's what comes from mis-reading my own notes ( DOH !!).....Logically, as the point of ignition is to occur BEFORE TDC arrives then on the moving part of the tool ( Plunger or my screwdriver ) it follows that the ignition mark will also be BEFORE the TDC mark....Simples really---which I appear to be more-so every day !!---LoL !!....A slice of this is indicated I think --------> ------------>

[Felix]

Please disregard my last stupid post, as opposed to my other stupid posts.
I must've had a Senior Moment. The crow is rather chewy.

[Geraintosaurus]

Diagrammatic help much appreciated guys! My adventures in ignition timing have been cut short by a total break down unfortunately, will be posting about that on the board so any insights, again, very welcome.