I have a 1988 460 ford I can't see timing pointer . How do you set the timing with a vacuum gauge?

Answer 1

warm up the engine, hook up your gauge to a manifold vacuum source, slightly loosen the distributor hold down bolt, with engine running and watching vacuum gauge, rotate the distributor in 1 direction and see which way the needle on your vacuum gauge goes. Obtain the highest vacuum reading, then rotate the other direction on obtain the lowest vacuum reading without stalling the engine. Remember both the high and low points, then set the vacuum to the most middle point between the high and low points. final setting should be close to 18" to 20'' of vacuum.
That will get you fairly close to proper timing but the use of a timing light or static timing is the the MOST proper way to set your timing.

Answer 2

Ford Timing Pointer

Answer 3

This was posted on another message board.

Got a piece of chalk?

The timing marks are on the harmonic balancer, but if you're engine is like mine they're impossible to find until you chalk them.

I'm assuming you found the little metal triangle over the harmonic balancer, it sounds like what you described. The triangle is sort of on the passenger side, and the only way to see it is to look between the 2 air pumps (assuming your '86 is the same as my '85).

To find the timing marks, get underneath the truck and turn the engine by hand (a breaker bar with a deep socket or whatever is easiest) and watch the balancer until you find the marks. They're hard to see, but they're there. When they appear, mark them well with chalk. Then you'll have no problem timing it.

You mean how many degrees? 12-14 before TDC is standard. I've found it makes life easier to put white paint marks with a tiny brush on the zero mark, 10 degree mark and 15 degree mark.

Answer 4

I have never heard of setting the timing with a vacum gauge.
Use a timing light, The timing mark is there you might have to clean the DIRT AND GREASE off to find it then mark it with a chalk (white) Good Luck!