1948 Oldsmobile Timing

[57j2olds]

Hello again...

 

Got the car back on the road. I need to address timing.

 

I initially set it so the pointer on the flywheel lined up while timing light was on.

 

For better performance, should I advance it 5 deg or so?

 

Thanks,

Lee

[Oldtech]

Depending on Model book says TDC on 66 / 76 an 2 degrees before on 68 / 78.

You can likely safely go 3 or 4 degreed earlier on our modern fuels. It's a bit of an experiment.

[Bloo]

More is better! Except when:

 

1) The engine kicks back on itself while starting, or tries to, making the starter chug down, crank slow, and just be generally difficult to start. This can also break the starter.

or

2) The engine "pings" or detonates.

or

3) The engine is rough at cruise or under power from too much advance (engine is getting fire a little too soon, before the piston is quite over the top, engine feels like it is fighting itself).

or

4) The engine idle wont set right, and is too fast for good clean manual shifting, or there is too much idle creep on a car with an automatic.

 

I's start with about 4 more degrees like @Oldtech said. Still good? Try more if you want.