When I get her put back together, I want to be able to set the timing, dwell, and do all my carbureator adjustments myself. I'll be kind of learning as I go and was wondering what tools I need besides a timing light and vacuum guage. Where would you guys buy this kind of stuff and what are the differences in timing lights? There seems to be big price differences on ebay.

Rich

 

Besides a timing light, I have a little diagnostic tool. It's about 35 years old, but very handy. I think it is a craftsman. It does a whole variety of tests such as dwell, idle speed, coil test, condenser test, and a whole slew of other tests. Its very handy for adjusting the carb and points. My timing light is a snap-on and my uncle has a sears brand and both seem to work equally well.

 

or simply get a dwell meter if ya dont wanna spend the $ on a multi-meter...

 

A timing light with advance meter is handy when "curving" you distributor and setting Max advance. Two tuning items most people don't do (and makes a big difference in power and efficiency).
Tach/dwell meter is great if you have points. Vacuum gauge that reads both vacuum and fuel pressure is handy as well.
If you've got the cash, a Fluke 88 is an awesome meter that will do everything from dwell and RPM, to volt/ohm/amp checks.
I've used all kinds of different tools from Snap-On to Micronta. For home use, I'd look for bang for the buck with a good warranty. Sears has some nice stuff, with a great warranty program.

Most meters come with great instructions, that teach you how to use them. I highly suggest that whatever meters you get, that you read the included information.

Have fun!

 

Great info... thanks

 

Regarding the timing light. It either works, or it doesn't. The cheapest timing lights work the same as the more expensive ones.