I have a 66 fast back i just put a 302 in eveything is together and run strong, starts good but I have two thing causing me problems 1 I can get a good timming read because the motor cam with a newer style timming change cover. Now I put a pionter where one should be on the cover but my timing reads 42 advanced at a idel so I know that is not right (but it seems to run and start good) is there a way to get a good read on it? I brought up #1 but like i said it reads off when i have it set where it runs good.... and 2nd it runs hot if the timing is really off would it make it run hot or are they 2 differant problems?

thanks for any help

 

Yes, the engine will tend to run hotter at too far advanced timing. Get #1 piston at TDC by putting a rag in the spark plug hole snugly. Turn over the engine until the rag pops out, then take a screw driver and feel if #1 is at the top. This will put you at TDC, then turn your distributer slightly countercloskwise until the engine starts running very smoothly. (plug your vacuum hoses) This will get you close. Then use a dwell meter to get you where your timing should be at anywhere between 8 and 12 degrees BTDC. I don't have my manual with me to give you the timing mark and dwell setting for your engine. Maybe you could call the Ford house or auto supply place in your town to get that information. About 10 degrees BTDC will be very close.

 

make sure you disconnect your vacuum advance. That would show an advanced reading.

 

Well this shows twon things one how stupid I am and 2 that someone knows how stupid i can be . first thanks for the assistance on finding top TDC I have that now and Thanks for pointing out that you can't set timing with your vacume advance hooked up . Now that I have the timing taken care we will see if i can get the motor cooler I think a combination of timing and the fact that it is a new motor needing to be fully boken might be the issue


thanks for the help save me alot of time pulling my hair out

 

Take it easy on that new engine until the rings get set. That should take a few thousand miles of taking it easy.