Timing

Not to brag, but think I'm pretty damned good with a feeler gauge, having decades of experience. My understanding is if the point gap is set perfect, the timing will be perfect. I'm not so sure can be absolutely perfect though and what I'm reading says for a super nice idle and easy starts the points should be set exactly 180* apart. Well, we all like a smooth idle right? So thinking maybe I should try a little harder. Can I simply use my multimeter to check for continuity as the points open and close or do I really need some sort of tool for this? I see pointers for sale, but don't really get how that would be much better than just using a multimeter. Maybe some of you old timers can school me on how to improve my skills. Also is it possible to make the apparatus for timing? Just looks like a piece of strapping with a hole and a pointer.

I almost forgot what points were for! I probably still have a dwell meter buried on some shelf, though.

Actually I still have a dwell meter. Think I even know where it is. Not sure if can set it up for 2 cylinders or if I even remember how to use it.....LOL

I just used a dwell meter and timing light after installing new wires, cap, rotor, and points on my 1966 Impala and I always know exactly where they are!
If I remember correctly, dwell affects timing, but timing doesn't affect dwell, and I always set the dwell first, but that's on a car.

Sold my dwell meter and timing light in a garage sale a few years ago. Couldn't imagine ever needing them again.

Actually, l bought the current car without even opening the hood. Other than the dip stick, windshield wash fluid, and maybe the battery, I ain't going to be messing with anything under the hood.

LDUBS said:

Other than the dip stick, windshield wash fluid, and maybe the battery, I ain't going to be messing with anything under the hood.

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And you just had to go ahead and say it, didn't you!

Now, a timing light I do have and even know where it is! That was needed on the 350 Mercruiser. I'd guess it could still be used to find a missing cylinder. Now that I think of it, the rpm meter I used, is also the dwell meter. That is, if the function knob still works.