how do i use a timing light?

Question

how do i use i timing light?

Answer 1

First find your timing mark on the Harmonic Balancer and mark with some White Fingernail Polish (This the part that spin with belts). Find the timing marks attached to the Timing cover. Connect the Timing Light and be sure it on #1 Spark Plug. Then follow your manual. Some vehicles have the Timing on a label either attached on the inside of the hood, look up, or on a label over the radiator, look down. Loosen the nut on the Distributor and adjust. Many you may need to disconnect the Timing Advance Vacuum and plug the hose.

Answer 2

Easy...

Simply clamp it to the #1 spark plug wire. Then hook the supply clamps to the battery, red on hot, black on ground.

Fire the engine up, pull the trigger. The light will flash every time the #1 plug fires.

Oh and....find your engine timing marks...point it at them. The flash causes a perceived freeze in the movement. Allowing you to see whether the marks are matched, or if you need to adjust the timing one way other the other.