Article by: Glen Profile | E-Mail

Summary:

Advancing your timing is a tuning trick that can help free up some extra horsepower.

Most 3.8 engines and all 5.0 engines with a distributor can benefit from this article. Initial timing can be set too as high as 14-15 degrees without detonation. You have to run premium fuel. I would suggest starting out at 12 degrees and if no detonation is present, bump it up to 13 and eventually 14, using this test and drive method. If you do this during winter, things might have to be re-evaluated during the heat of summer. I caution you to be conservative! Detonation can destroy motors!

It's a fairly simple task to set your timing and it's not a bad idea to check it regardless of the performance gains. Just follow the instructions below:

1. Use chalk or a bright paint to highlight all timing marks on the harmonic balance.
2. Remove the wire (spout) connector that is about 6 inches out/below from the distributor.
3. Connect your timing light.
4. Loosen the distributor hold down bolt. Only enough so that you can turn the distributor.
5. Start your engine.
6. Point your timing light at the timing marks and slowly turn your distributor until the timing pointer lines up with one (1) mark beyond the 10 degree line (this would equal 12 degrees).
7. Turn off the engine.
8. Retighten the distributor.
9. Start your engine and recheck timing to make sure it did not change after the distributor was retightened.
10. Reconnect spout connector.
11. Drive and test.
12. Repeat procedure to advance again up to 13 degrees (one and a half marks (1½) beyond the 10-degree line. Two (2) marks beyond the 10-degree line should be 14 degrees.12) Repeat procedure to advance again up to 13 degrees (one and a half marks (1 ½) beyond the 10-degree line. Two (2) marks beyond the 10-degree line should be 14 degrees.