Timing is off!!!

Timing won't change the sound. It's running, so a minor change in timing won't affect the sound. In fact, when i set mine, you can't even notice a change in sound.

But still, you should check it. It's not hard. I would look elsewhere though. What firing order are you using? You should be using the 351 order 1-3-7-2-6-5-4-8

To check the timing, get a timing light. Sand the harmonic balance so you can see the numbers and use white chalk or an asprin to mark 10 degrees BTDC. Start the engine and pull the SPOUT connector out. It's a small plug connected to the harness on the distributor TFI module. It will cause the car to stop timing advance. Hook the timing gun up to the battery and connect the plug to the #1 spark plug wire (front cylinder, passenger side)

Point the gun at the balancer and pull the trigger. Spin the dist (loosen with 1/2" socket prior) until the pointer points to 10 degrees BTDC. Turn off the engine and tighter it down. Recheck timing to make sure it has not moved. If satisfied, put the spout back in. All done.

ballajb64 said:

i maybe the dist. gears are off like a tooth or 2.

Click to expand...

No such thing.


You can stab the dizzy anywhere you want. Then you just rotate the body until the rotor points to the correct spark plug on the cap.

Usually the intake gets in the way, so there is a specific range you are able to stab and get the car to run. But being a tooth off is not really true. 10 degrees BTDC is 10 degrees no matter where.

But first thing I'd do is def confirm where you are set for timing. You are prob close, but set it to 10.