How do i: check timing, check compression?

[sage2k]

Can someone give me a well detailed guide on checking timing and checking compression? I think my dad has an old timing light (he used on a 71 challenger). What else do I need and any pics will help!

 

[sage2k]

 

[FORCED2DV8]

I dont have any pics, but Timing you need a light of course, pull your spout connector, have engine running, put the little clamp thing on the timing light on the number 1 cylinder spark plug wire, point the timing light at the marks on your hamonic balancer, it will have a pointer off the block and you will see marks starting at usually 10 degrees advanced and at least 15 to 20 degrees retarted, make a note of where its at before you adjust. loosen the bolt holding down the distributor, and turn the dist. slowly watching the timing marks while doiong this, adjust to where you think you want it then tighten the dist, back down, double check your timing and your set. plug the spout connector back in, this will set you base timing, computer pulls timing as rpms advance.

 

[FORCED2DV8]

For the compression check go buy a copression tester one the screws into the head, and follow the instructions. good luck

 

[sage2k]

I dont have any pics, but Timing you need a light of course, pull your spout connector, have engine running, put the little clamp thing on the timing light on the number 1 cylinder spark plug wire, point the timing light at the marks on your hamonic balancer, it will have a pointer off the block and you will see marks starting at usually 10 degrees advanced and at least 15 to 20 degrees retarted, make a note of where its at before you adjust. loosen the bolt holding down the distributor, and turn the dist. slowly watching the timing marks while doiong this, adjust to where you think you want it then tighten the dist, back down, double check your timing and your set. plug the spout connector back in, this will set you base timing, computer pulls timing as rpms advance.

cool, what is a spout connector and where is harmonic balancer and what it look like?

 

[HISSIN50]

cool, what is a spout connector and where is harmonic balancer and what it look like?

This might help:

http://www.muscularmustangs.com/timing.php

If more info is desired, Tim (Stang22) has a nice write up on his site.

Good luck.

 

[FORCED2DV8]

I would suggest buying a manual for your car, haynes, or otherwise, 20 bucks at autozone, read away, it will answer almost everything and anything else that comes up, thats what were here for.