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Need help adjusting timing on Crusader 220 (305)

JCosta

JCosta

Member
I need to check and/or adjust the timing on both my Crusader 220's (305 cid) but I'm not sure how to proceed. I've watched a couple video's but I'm not confident enough to do it yet.

This is what I have:
Actron digital timing light that I borrowed and it came with this other wire.
IMG_0685.jpg

I was told it needed to be plugged into this port on the distributor, the one that has the yellow wire on it, then the other end to POS on battery
IMG_0681.jpg

Now I kind of understand Initial Timing and Total Advanced Timing but I don't know what degree they should be set to. Is there an order that things should be done?
  • Should I check/set Fast Idle first before I set timing and if so should RPM's be 700 or 750 at operating temp?
  • Is Initial Timing: Advance @ 0 at TDC on the gun at 700 or 750 RPM's?
  • Is Total Advanced Timing: Advance to 25 at 2500 RPM?

IMG_0683.jpg

Ugh... If anyone has any helpful advice I would appreciate it. I just want to understand it before I begin.

Thanks, John
 
Last edited:
looks like an EST distributor so the total timing advance is fixed in the module (ie non-adjustable).....the plug 'locks' the timing so the initial value can be set....should be stated on the ID plate (look at the flywheel cover). The order of startup and connecting the wire is critical so make sure you are clear on that....there shouldn't be a 'fast idle screw', only the curb idle speed screw. As far as idle RPM, I believe it should be 600, in gear, fully warmed up. I'd make sure the mixture screws are dialed in, again, fully warmed up, and then set the timing, and reset the idle speed, if needed. And remember to remove the 'timing plug' when you are done or you won't have any advance function (which should be verified once the adjustments are done.
 
I checked the factory service data....to set timing, start engine with "timing plug" installed, connect the wire from the 'timing plug' to +12VDC (with engine running), then measure and adjust (if necessary) the timing. disconnect wire from +12VDC and then shutoff engine. When the 12 V gets applied to the wire, the timing is 'frozen' so you can set the initial timing.
 
makomark, Going through my old posts I noticed that I had forgotten to thank you for the information. It worked out well!
 
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