2.8 Timing (Page 1/2)
hunter29 MAY 02, 10:57 PM
So looking into this I find two ways.

1). Set timing at 10* using cylinder one.

2). Set timing at 8* using cylinder one and check with cylinder 4 , should be at 12*.

So the difference would put it at 10*

Which is it ? The sticker on my deck lid does state to use cylinder 1 and 4.

[This message has been edited by hunter29 (edited 05-02-2022).]

Patrick MAY 02, 11:09 PM

I think you're over thinking it.

I usually do my timing by "ear"... but to be safe, using the timing light is a wise choice for anyone not familiar with the technique.

I used to connect the timing light to the high tension lead from the coil to the distributor. Yes, there's a lot of flashing going on, but it's easy enough to see where the "average" of the flashes are occurring... then adjust accordingly.
olejoedad MAY 02, 11:29 PM
When timing set timing on #1 at 10°.
Then check #4, should also be at 10°.

Blip the throttle, should be very quick response, if sluggish, advance or retard timing by turning distributor slightly to get a crisp response.

I've seen some 2.8's that wanted more or less timig to get the crisp throttle response that indicates the right setting.
hunter29 MAY 03, 09:43 AM
Thanks
gatorfrey MAY 03, 10:37 AM
In another thread , I just bought a new distributor and stabbed it in this week.
Took it for a test run, and got some back firing , so I went back to adjust it better.
I hear do this on a warm engine. Mine was cold on the first run. So, I got back there and started slow twisting, and got it very close.
The next run, a few minutes later, seemed fine. However, I would feel better knowing it was dead on.
A friend of mine, 40 miles away, has a timing light. I am good with hooking it all up, and getting the dampener flashed. But how do you know where 10 degrees is ? I honestly have not looked yet. There may be marks for that ???
Mine is a 3.4. Since it is so similar to the 2.8, I am guessing the same suggestion apply.
hunter29 MAY 03, 11:21 AM
Ok , wire one 8*…. Wire four 8*.

How much performance did 2* cost , any ?

Thanks for the help..
Patrick MAY 03, 01:44 PM

quote
Originally posted by hunter29:

How much performance did 2* cost , any ?



"Any"? No doubt. "How much"? No way for us to tell with your engine. My 2.8 accelerates best with 12+° of advance, yours might be happier with 10°.

Just adjust the timing to what Pontiac has deemed to be satisfactory, and revel in the satisfaction of knowing that it's now been done by the book.
hunter29 MAY 03, 06:13 PM
Ok, one more question, how would I know if I advanced the timing to far ?

What would the symptoms be?

[This message has been edited by hunter29 (edited 05-03-2022).]

cvxjet MAY 03, 07:40 PM
For those using a light, take some paint and mark the 10* line on the dampener....Also, mark the tip of the pointer for easier visibility.

Note; Don't use black paint....Use WHITE paint!
olejoedad MAY 03, 08:23 PM
Ignition pinging or knock under acceleration or load.