The usual way of setting the timing when it has been completely lost is to
set it to the static figure with a test-lamp or some such, which will allow
you to get the car running, then fine-tune it to the dynamic figure. If you
don't have a static figure then try 7 degrees. Connect your test-lamp up to
the points terminal of the coil and turn the engine in its normal direction
of rotation (with plugs out and either with a spanner on the crankshaft nut
or by pulling the car long in a high gear) until the 7 degree BTDC mark on
the pulley is by the pointer. You should now be able to turn the test-lamp
on and off by rotating the distributor one way and the other. Advance the
distributor past the point at which the light goes off, then retard it
slowly until it just comes on again. Lightly clamp the distributor and give
the engine one full turn and check that the test-lamp goes out at about the
7 degree mark, adjusting as neccessary. The car should now start and you
can fine-tune to the dynamic figure.
If the car still doesn't start then you have a fault. You might like to
have a look at my web site's diagnostics info, select 'Spanners',
'Electrics' and 'Won't Start'. It is for the MGB but the principles should
be the same.
PaulH.
http://freespace.virgin.net/paul.hunt1/
(or if that URL doesn't work try )
(http://194.168.54.52/paul.hunt1)
----- Original Message -----
From: BOB HILL <oldcars@newt.vallnet.com>
To: <mgs@autox.team.net>
Sent: Saturday, November 27, 1999 5:20 AM
Subject: timing questions on Midget
> Being no mechanic I have a question that may seem elementary to many but I
> need toknow the answer.
>
> I got the 77 Midget home today and it started and ran horribly bad. Seems
> among other things that the timing is way off. THe problem now is that
> the car will not start. I have moved the distributor a little in both
> direction with no avail. There is spark and I have set the points to the
> proper gap and fuel is getting to the carb so I am assuming that hte car
> is BAd out of timing - so bad it will not run. The question I have is
> this:
>
> How do I set the timing properly without being able to get the car
> started. Remember, I am not a mechanic so make your explanation easy
> first and not beyond the scope of my abilities secondly.
>
> Thanks a million in advance
>
> Bob
>
> 79 MGB
> 97 Jaguar XJ6
> 77 Midget (sitting in garage with the hood up !!!)
>
>
>
>
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