SERAFIM

i have a 67 289 ford mustang , the problem is that the distributor got loose and move a bit and now the car will not start , replace the plgs and rotor, good spark but cranks but will not fire up when i move the distributor one way or the other slowly fuel is ok. what else could be the problem, could it be the timing chain or cam? need help thks

67mustang302

Bring the #1 piston to TDC compression and rotate the distributor with the rotor pointing to the terminal with the plug wire going to #1. That'll get you close enough to start it, once it's running you can retime it.

socalwrench

Yep, ignition timing is off. Find the no. 1 piston at TDC on the intake stroke (piston at the top of it's stroke with BOTH valves closed, right after the intake valve has closed), hook everything back up and fire it up. Slowly advance the timing- turning very slightly. You can temporary time it by using your ears as advancing the timing will increase the engine speed (retarding it slows it down). You'll notice there's a point where the engine will begin to stumble when you go too far in either direction. You're wanting the sweet spot in between each. Most of the early engines timing is set between 6-10 deg. initial timing. Remember, this is NOT your optimal timing mark- you'll need a timing light to be accurate.