ckyguy68

is there a way to estimate your timing without a timing light? i am too lazy to go buy a light so i thought maybe i could turn the distributor cap until i hear a pinging, then turn it back a little. whould this work?

PRO50SC

It will in a pinch but not a recommended method. You have no way of knowing where it's set at. You can get cheap timing light for 20 or 30 bucks. Might want to invest in one.

Black Snake

Wont work too well, trust me just get a light its only 30 bucks.

Suspect

buy one or borrow one. i wouldnt try to guess.

mcfomco

wouldnt be a wise move to try to set it without a light. it only takes about 1/8 of an inch to get couple degrees. if you turn it to much gonna run like crap and possiblly cause more trouble than it would be to buy the light...

luckythirteen13

dont even bother. youll never come close just guessing. just invest 20 dollars on a tool youll probably use a lot or just borrow one. more auto parts stores rent tools

Grimace5.0

Just buy one. $20 isn't much and you probably **** away more than that per week on other junk you don't need. To answer your question, yes you can "ballpark" the timing by sound, without a light. But you will have no idea where it's at.

ZoSo15

so what if you turn your distributor and it runs better than it ever has. can i be certain that im not hurting my engine?

PRO50SC

As long as there is no detonation it's prolly OK. It's just not recommended. You're better to be sure then to guess. Having the proper tools is just as important as installing the parts you put on your car. Cutting corners will come back to haunt you. I learned that along time ago the hard way.

Magiarn71

Definitely not a good idea. If you were stuck on the side of the road, I'd attempt it. Buy a light.....