I am trying to check and adjust then timing on an AQ145A. The problem I am having is that the timing groove is on the crankshaft pulley and the calibrated marks are on the engine block, which is about 4 inches away. Is it that my timing light is not bright enough or am I doing something wrong? Any advice would be most grateful.
Nick, we time all engine functions as per #1 cylinder, so the timing light triggering lead must be connected to #1 spark plug wire.
Use a standard timing light on this engine, since all degrees are clearly visible.
If the markings are not bright, perhaps highlite them with a white paint pen, or ____!
Your timing light will/should flash at the precise nano second as is your actual spark event.
The flash or strobe will elluminate these markings as though they are "still".
The degree that becomes elluminated, will indicate the current spark lead
at that RPM! (this will vary at each RPM)
As you increase RPM as you strobe, the notch in the pulley will appear to move towards Stbd.... (I.E., to your left when viewing the front of the engine.)
If the engine starts and runs, your actual timing may be close.
If your strobe elluminates the notch too far towards Stbd, you may not have your triggering lead on cylinder #1.
Now... more importantly, you should be able to see not only your BASE advance, but you'll want to look at the progressive advance.
See your Volvo Penta OEM service manual for these specs, and make sure that your distributor allows for these OEM specs to ouccur.
These old distributors are prone to having flyweight return spring issues, and/or flyweight issues.
If the flyweights aren't operating correctly, or if the flyweight return springs have become compromised due to rust, you will risk an early igntion advance that may cause engine damage.
Point being: DO NOT just set BASE advance, and call it a day!
Check the Progressive and Total Advance.
