What should the offset from top dead center be on the igition timing be?

Question

I am trying to set the ignition timing on a 1.3 ford crossflow (OHV) engine from a mk1 escort.

have a manual and it says to initialy set it to TDC then using a timing strobe remove the vacume hose and ajust the ignition timing according to the offset, but it does not say what the offset is?

Answer 1

they are just trying to get points the offset should be about 4 degrees a piece of metal it should be in the shape of an arrow it is above the harmonic balancer some of them are long with grooves cut into them clean it off good find the 0 and that is tdc then each mark is 2 degrees mark it with a piece of chalk it is easy to see on the harmonic balancer there is a groove mark that with your chalk that is the line you set your timing by when this mark lines up with the mark on your offset the timing is right you should set the timing at about 4-6 degrees after TDC

Answer 2

not sure why you need the 'offset'? You should be able to set the timing by knowing which piston is at TDC. There should be a mark on the flywheel and crank case. Failing this - try a Haynes manual - should be available from the library.

Answer 3

Get a timing light, and set it up, as per the instructions, then look at the pulley, on the front of the engine, while the car is at idol, and all will be revealed.........

Answer 4

lots if info seems to be lacking, go to the local bookstore or an autostore and buy a manual for about 20.00