500 Four ignition timing

[JezzaPeach]

A lot of fiddling but I eventually realised how much difference the points gap makes to the timing. I find I need to set the left set closer to 0.4 than 0.3, otherwise the right set can’t advance enough to reach the F mark when the static light comes on.

[bobv7]

Must admit that I was always a bit over the top about setting the points precisely to a fixed gap, but when you actually look at the wide tolerance range it does make setting the timing spot on easier. Now I just set the timing then measure the gap. This also compensates for the wear on the advance retard cam.

[deltarider]

On my bike that has OEM parts, when I have the breakerpoints exactly where they are supposed to be, they are both in the middle of the adjusting range. Then, after I have done the timing, also the plates are both in the middle of the adjusting range. I'm not saying this goes for any CB500/550, but these are my results with original TEC parts. To adjust the timing, I only have to readjust the breakerpoints gap and all is fine.

[JezzaPeach]

Good points, no pun intended, a lot less fiddling.

[bobv7]

Just come back from a test run, new fuel lines and complete contact breaker set up. The new back plate needed some fettling with fine emery cloth to get it to fit in place and move easily, not a surprise with pattern parts I suppose but the bike now runs as smoothly as any 40+ year old does. Now got the rest of the week to recover!

[JezzaPeach]

👍