Problem setting timing, '73 258

I got a '73 with a 258 swap (did have 232). Also did HEI conversion.

I have onboard air (York compressor) and what with the home grown brackets for that, I cannot lightup or see the timing mark and degree marker.

Is there a "trick" alternative way to set ignition timing, without being able to eyeball the timing marks?

I'd hate to have to pull off the compressor and related stuff just to do a tune-up.

 

For what it's worth, on my 258, the timing are visible from the driver side, and if I remember correctly your pics, the York is mounted on the passenger side.


Bob in Sherbrooke

 

I do mine by sound and test driving. But, you can take out #1 spark plug, shine a light into the port and using a wrench, turn the engine over till the piston is at the top of its stroke. Roughly TDC. Turn distributor back 3 degrees for the 258 and an extra 6-8 for the HEI. My 258 w/ HEI required 11 degrees BTDC.

 

I've heard you can do it with a vacuum gauge, but I have not tried it.

 

you want to set timing at maximum vacuum reading. you can also advance your timing until your engine kicks back at start up and then you just delay until it starts without any kick back. this method will get you close, but i would go with the vacuum reading timing if you cant get it with a timing light

 

Can you cut some kind of peeple in th bracket??? What about a well placed mirror???

 

OK, I finally picked up a vacuum gauge and had time to play with it this afternoon.

I can get up to 15 Hg., but then the HEI vacuum advance contacts the side of the 258 block.

What do I do now?? leave it at that, or pull it and move it around by one tooth and try again????

 

Same problem on my 258, loosen, turn it by hand a tooth or two and reseat. Remember to leave turning room to advance the timing.