25 Dodge Timing Observation

[JayG]

In the process of cleaning, replacing gaskets and detailing the engine I had removed the distributor and water pump. Last night I was cleaning the pump and getting things ready for reinstallation when I noticed that the rubber connecting disk didn't quite look right. It was in good shape with no deterioration or tears but the mounting holes and impressions looked funny. Sure enough the disk is contorted and the holes are not equal distances. One set of opposite measurements are 1 1/2 inches apart and the other set are 1 3/8 inches. This tells me that the rotation of the shaft had caused the disk to contort in the direction of the rotation. This can't be good for accurate timing. I haven't had the car out that much but it seemed to run fine. Maybe this is the reason that it needs a little help going uphill.

Anyway I thought I'd share this with you as may of you may be reusing the disks or not even considering replacing them. I have a new one coming and we'll see if it makes any difference in how she runs.

[hchris]

In the process of cleaning, replacing gaskets and detailing the engine I had removed the distributor and water pump. Last night I was cleaning the pump and getting things ready for reinstallation when I noticed that the rubber connecting disk didn't quite look right. It was in good shape with no deterioration or tears but the mounting holes and impressions looked funny. Sure enough the disk is contorted and the holes are not equal distances. One set of opposite measurements are 1 1/2 inches apart and the other set are 1 3/8 inches. This tells me that the rotation of the shaft had caused the disk to contort in the direction of the rotation. This can't be good for accurate timing. I haven't had the car out that much but it seemed to run fine. Maybe this is the reason that it needs a little help going uphill.

Anyway I thought I'd share this with you as may of you may be reusing the disks or not even considering replacing them. I have a new one coming and we'll see if it makes any difference in how she runs.

[ATTACH=CONFIG]156727[/ATTACH]

Well spotted and yes there will be an impact on correct

timing, however you might also consider that:

• if you have your manual advance / retard working, to some extent it will allow you to compensate for any timing errors,and
  
• the relatively slow engine speeds lessen the effect of incorrect timing
  

but it will be interesting to see how the new drive changes things:)