Nick :
Yes, the timing is normally set for the #1 cylinder. I don't know the exact
timing spec for your engine (it should be in any manual, but I don't have
one handy), but it's probably something like 5-10 degrees BTDC. This means
you need the crank set just before TDC with #1 on the compression stroke,
the rotor pointing to the #1 terminal, and turn the distributor body so the
points just open. I sometimes file a small notch in the edge of the
distributor body, to indicate the location of the #1 terminal.
If you have the rocker cover off, the easiest way to find #1 compression is
to watch for the #4 exhaust valve to start closing as you turn the engine
forward. Another way is to remove the #1 plug and put your finger over the
hole. When the air forces your finger off the hole, the cylinder is on it's
compression stroke.
Every cylinder has a TDC (top dead center), but usually only the TDC for #1
(which is also TDC for #4 on most 4 cylinder in-line engines) is marked and
used as a reference point.
Randall
> -----Original Message-----
> From: nick glase
> Sent: Friday, October 29, 1999 6:59 AM
> To: Randall Young
> Cc: triumphs@autox.team.net
> Subject: MALLORY DISTRIBUTER TIMING continued
>
> Is there a general rule of where (which cylinder) and when
> (what exact part of the
> combustion cycle) I should align the rotor to fire?
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