SOHC.co.uk Forums > CB350/400

It’s all about the timing

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Ken4004:
Afternoon all, I have a question about timing .

What is the difference between setting up ignition timing using a light (static timing) and setting timing using a timing gun in terms of accuracy.

Now what I am trying to say is do you think just carrying out static timing is good enough or do you really need to do dynamic timing afterwards ?, for instance you may only have a test light to set your timing is this accurate enough ?.
I do appreciate that only having a test light you cannot check that the advance retard mechanism is working correctly.

The reason I am asking this question is because the timing light I am using is fairly old and I am not sure how accurate it is ( I am using a Gunsons light used to use on my car years ago see photo attached) I would have thought if you set up the timing using a timing light only it should be close enough and if it isn’t what’s the point in doing a static and dynamic timing why not just do the dynamic timing.

Look forward to your comments thanks

McCabe-Thiele (Ted):
My stance is that static timing is to get the engine running.

Dynamic timing is to fine tune it for both 1 & 4 and 2 & 3

Mikep328:
I agree, and using the timing light corresponds to Honda's instructions re timing adjustment on page 5 of the CB400F service manual.  Your timing light will work fine to check the position of the associated timing marks at 1200 and at 2500 RPM.

exvalvesetdabbler:
Static timing using a lamp with ignition on or  measuring resistance across the points with ignition off  has always served me well so long as you're rotating the engine the right direction when approaching the break point.

A timing  light is good verification of initial timing and then checking for smooth operation of the advance mechanism up to full advance.

If your timing strobe is like mine where you clip onto a plug lead - don't melt the cable on a hot exhaust!

I did play around with timing once and noticed that  mine  ran better using about 1-2 Deg advance with the F mark. Also noted on a lot of classic car forums they mention ignition advance by a few degrees for modern E5 fuel because the flame front propagates a little slower than the old  leaded stuff. Then you look somewhere else and they are saying not to bother.


Regards Dave.

Bryanj:
The ONLY reason to use a strobe(timing light) is to prove the advacer is working properly. I.E. advancing enough AND not advancing too early.

The static timing, when done properly and with points at correct gap, is all you need for a good running engine IF carbs are good

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