Timing Questions

[JonnieBlue]

This may be a dumb question, but i want to check timing on my 86 xt coupe..
but i dont have a timing light and equipment. is there any way to check and
adjust this without the light?

 

[zeromedic]

This may be a dumb question, but i want to check timing on my 86 xt coupe..
but i dont have a timing light and equipment. is there any way to check and
adjust this without the light?

short answer, no.

long answer, if it pings on full throttle acceleration, the timing is advanced
too far.

if it dogs out full throttle at mid range rpm, the timing isn't advanced enough.

zero

 

[No Way]

This may be a dumb question, but i want to check timing on my 86 xt coupe..
but i dont have a timing light and equipment. is there any way to check and
adjust this without the light?

Do you have standard 'points' ignition?
If yes you can check it with no light.
2 different ways.

A) Rotate the engine the correct direction with a wrench on the crankcase
nut, it is easier if the spark plugs are out. When you reach the timing
mark, stop. Put a very thin piece of paper between the points. Rotate the
distributor until the points just open enough to release the thin paper.
This is very close.

THE OBJECT OF THE EXERCISE IS: >>> Your points must just open at the timing
mark.

B) Almost the same as above.......But take the wires off the points. Attach
an OHM meter to ground and the movable arm on the points. Same method as
above. But, when the points just open you will see your OHM meter drop to
zero.

Both methods are pretty good. NOT perfect but pretty good.
Most older outboard marine engines are done this way for years.

 

[Rob Munach]

Do you have standard 'points' ignition?
If yes you can check it with no light.
2 different ways.

A) Rotate the engine the correct direction with a wrench on the crankcase
nut, it is easier if the spark plugs are out. When you reach the timing
mark, stop. Put a very thin piece of paper between the points. Rotate the
distributor until the points just open enough to release the thin paper.
This is very close.

THE OBJECT OF THE EXERCISE IS: >>> Your points must just open at the timing
mark.

B) Almost the same as above.......But take the wires off the points. Attach
an OHM meter to ground and the movable arm on the points. Same method as
above. But, when the points just open you will see your OHM meter drop to
zero.

Both methods are pretty good. NOT perfect but pretty good.
Most older outboard marine engines are done this way for years.

Unlikley that a '86 subaru has points.