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How do you set the timing on a Model T Ford?

How do you set the timing on a Model T Ford?

This is simply for setting the timing.

  1. With the spark lever all the way up, disconnect the timer linkage (commutator pull rod) from the timer.
  2. Rotate the timer (commutator) counter clockwise as far as it will go.
  3. Remove the #1 (front) spark plug.
  4. Place a thumb over the spark plug hole.

How is the contact point gap in a Ford garage adjustable?

The contact point gap is statically adjustable in both the Model A and Model B distributors by loosening the clamp screw on the point block and screwing the stationary contact point in or out to change the gap.

What should the gap be on a Ford Model A?

Remember to cut a nitch in your shims to match the inside of the rotor body. After years of polishing rotor tips and contact points, many Model A’s have as much as a 0.060 gap. Try a new rotor and/or distributor body and bring the gap down to 0.035. This is where the Model A runs best at top speed.

How does contact point gap affect spark timing?

Changes in contact point gap affect both the coil saturation (dwell time) as well as the actual spark timing (instant of firing). Wear of the movable contact point arm rubbing block on the distributor cam causes a reduction in gap over time, and retards the effective spark timing (as well as increasing the dwell time).

What’s the timing range on a Ford Club?

1. Move the steering column lever full ‘Up’ to full ‘Down’. The edges of the upper point plate control arm should just contact first one side of the opening and then the other (one inch total) of the distributor. This is 40 degrees timing range at the crankshaft. A range of approximately 34 degrees is all the engine can use.

The contact point gap is statically adjustable in both the Model A and Model B distributors by loosening the clamp screw on the point block and screwing the stationary contact point in or out to change the gap.

What does gap mean on Ford F-100 truck?

Lobes on the distributor cam open and close the points, generating ignition spark. The distance between the firing tips of the breaker points at the open position is known as the gap. Adjusting the gap to the specified clearance ensures the engine starts and runs efficiently.

Why is it important to set ignition point gap?

Setting the Point Gap. Getting the best gap between the points is essential for engine performance and reliability. Set the points too wide and the spark plugs don’t get enough juice — your engine whimpers. Set them too close and the engine works fine for a few miles.

Remember to cut a nitch in your shims to match the inside of the rotor body. After years of polishing rotor tips and contact points, many Model A’s have as much as a 0.060 gap. Try a new rotor and/or distributor body and bring the gap down to 0.035. This is where the Model A runs best at top speed.

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Ruth Doyle