[TR] TR4A - Breakdown Update - Dizzy Replaced

[Bob Labuz]

Guy,

Sounds like to me that you need the unit rebuilt with new bushings, 
springs etc. I had my 72 6 distributor rebuilt by Jeff at Advanced and 
he does a very good job. Not to pricey, I think around 120$ or so. He 
will also make sure the curve is what you specify.
His website is: http://advanceddistributors.com/

As far as setting the timing. That is what I do on the 3 and 4. Set it 
to 4 degrees and then advance until I get optimum performance and no 
pinging or after running. Then just back it off a degree or so. Been 
doing it for years.

I have been told that the best way to set the timing is to use a vacuum 
gauge but I dont have the instructions for a 3 or 4 or anywhere to hook 
the gauge. On the 6 owners use the port that operates the power brakes.

Bob

On 03/03/2012 10:02 AM, G.D. Huggins wrote:
> All,
>
> OK... after the roadside breakdown caused by the rotor breaking, and the
> insane amount of rattling the dizzy makes when the advance kicks-in, I decided
> to remove it (Pertronix) and replace with the original Lucas 25D.
>
> One of the immediate things I noticed after doing so is that startup
> performance was immediate, instead of sluggish, and it idles very strongly,
> almost too strongly (1000 rpm).  So, I think I need to adjust the carbs to
> accommodate the dizzy change, which makes sense since ignition is ahead of
> carbs in the tune-up critical path.
>
> A couple of inquiries:
>
> 1. I set the four degree advance by using the thumb wheel.  According to the
> manual, that is the starting point advance.  I've heard rumor of advancing the
> wheel until the engine begins to "ping" (premature detonation?), then
> retarding until it stops.  Does this really give you the best advance?
>
> 2. When the mechanical advance kicks in, it does rattle a bit, but nothing
> like the Pertronix.  What can I do to cure this, if anything?
>
> 3. Finally, the vacuum unit on the dizzy is shot, so I am looking to replace
> with one of those new units Moss is offering.  Any experience with those?
>
> Pertronix has offered to look at, and repair/replace their product.  I am
> hoping I just got a defective unit.
>
>
>
> Cheers,
>
> Guy D. Huggins
> 1965 Triumph TR4A
> CTC 63569LO