Ford — Ignition Timing Adjustment
Adjustments · Ignition system
From a Ford service manual — check it applies to your exact model before use.
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Procedure
- Clean and mark the specified timing mark with chalk or white paint.
- Disconnect the vacuum line and plug the disconnected vacuum line.
- Connect a timing light to the No. 1 cylinder spark plug wire and a tachometer to the engine.
- Start the engine and reduce idle speed to 600 rpm so the centrifugal advance is not operating.
- Adjust the initial ignition timing to specification by rotating the distributor.
- Check the centrifugal advance by accelerating to approximately 2000 rpm.
- Unplug the vacuum line, connect it, and check vacuum advance at approximately 2000 rpm.
Tools required
Tool links are Amazon searches (affiliate links); manufacturer special tools may only be available from a dealer.
Specs & values
- Idle 600 rpm
- Initial Spark Advance BTDC 10 degrees (breaker point)
Source: Ford service manual. Steps and values are as documented; always cross-check against the official manual and any later revisions for your exact serial number before servicing.