How do you set the timing on a Harley?

Locate the proper timing marks for your engine. If the shop manual is not available, remove spark plugs, turn engine until front piston is at TDC on compression stroke and identify TDC mark on the flywheel. 2….Setting Ignition Timing on your. Harley-Davidson engine.

Big Twin Sportster
Timing Range 0-35 0-45
Timing at Start 5
Timing at adjust RPM 35
Adjust RPM 1500 1650-1950

How do you adjust the ignition timing on a Harley Evo?

Remove the timing cover from the right side of the motor. Loosen the the timing plate screws with a slotted screwdriver, and turn the timing plate to adjust the timing. Recheck the timing marks with the timing light. Tighten the timing plate screws, and install the cover.

How do you time Shovelhead points?

Reach into the timing mechanism and grasp the point cam, which is in the center of the mechanism. Twist the point cam counterclockwise until it stops. Hold it in that position while you move the points plate (the round plate that the points are mounted on) counterclockwise until the test lamp lights.

How do you use the timing light on a motorcycle?

To dynamically time a motorcycle ignition:

  1. Hook up your timing light as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
  2. Remove the points cover.
  3. Start the engine.
  4. Aim the timing light through the points plate view hole.
  5. Confirm that the “F” mark aligns with the engine case’s timing mark at idle.

What happens when motorcycle timing is off?

If the valve timing is incorrect, not only will the engine not run, but the piston could smash into the valves, causing catastrophic damage. Usually, the result is bent valves and damaged pistons. If piston-to-valve timing is off, this is the result.

How do you check ignition timing on a motorcycle?

Confirm your ignition timing is properly set with a timing light and by checking the color of your spark plugs. To set the points gap: Turn the engine over until the points are at their widest opening point. With a feeler gauge that matches the thickness of the point gap specified in your shop manual, measure the gap.

What is a dial back timing light?

The next level up from a basic timing light is what is called a dial-back light. These timing lights use electronics to delay the onset of the spark based on how much delay is dialed in on the light. Original dial-back lights used a simple dial with a timing scale.

What kind of ignition timer did Harley Davidson use?

Harley Davidson Panheads used three types of ignition timers from 1948 to 1965 1948 -1960 used a single contact point manual advance ignition timer. mark should be in center of timing hole for advanced position. slightly before center for retard position.

What to do with timing marks on a Harley Davidson?

I recommend cleaning the timing marks with thinners, then painting with white marker pen or white paint and artist brush. I also carefully marked the rear cylinder, using black and white paint to highlight it. Strobe timing showed how poor the timer condition really was.

What makes the crazing on a Harley Davidson?

The crazing is actually electrical spray grease by Wurth. It came out pretty good so I’m proceeding to reassemble and test.. Ultimately I fitted a relay to bridge battery to coil directly. This eliminates voltage drop at switch, etc. 18 Dec 2019 The time came to repair the slop in the timer shaft and bushes.