Ignition timing

[milothedog]

Just given the car a little tune up, mixtures, balance cabs etc. It was running fine I just wanted to get the idle a bit better. Ticks over now perfectly, 750 rpm in neutral, 600 rpm in drive. C/O 3.5% give or take a bit, well pleased with that.

So I thought I would check the timing, it would appear to be set to 10 degrees. the car goes like a dream doesn't pink starts on the button etc. it has a Newtronic electronic ignition fitted (never seen one on another car) so I thought i would ask on here if anyone knows about/of them them and if they have a different timing setting !

Ian.

Just found them on "Tinternet" they used to be called Piranha systems if that helps.

[flying farmer]

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Timing should not depend on the type of ignition fitted, but does vary a lot between distributors and engines. As a rule of thumb I always start with the standard figures, then advance it two degrees at a time until it pinks under load, then back it off two degrees.

Occaisionally I will fill up with a crap tankful and it will pink, but that just tells you it is about right

Oddly enough my lowest compression engine (dished pistons and good heads) will only take standard timing figures, whereas the one in the TR with skimmed heads and domed pistons takes 18 degrees. The one in the stag I am still fiddling with but is similar to the TR internally is currently on 16 degrees with no problems, and when I have finished replacing the leaking sump gasket I shall try it on 18.

Bear in mind that a lot of modern cars have knock sensors so the engine management can run the engine with as much advance as possible for good power and economy

Neil

[Stagdad]

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Ian I had one but changed it for a pertronix because i didn't like the advance arrangement onthe single base plate,having said that it worked ok but the advance didn't move smoothly.

Cheers Steve

[milothedog]

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Thanks for the input Guy's,

All information is appreciated, I'll leave it as it is for now as it's running really well and I do believe in the saying "if it isn't broke don't fix it"

Thank, Guy's.

Ian.

[Giles]

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one thing to bear in mind - if you do change it you will probably need a pair of base plates I think these are now available but when I changed mine I had to hunt around for a second hand pair. I would say you are right for the the moment - if it aint broke.....