how to set the timing on a 86 chevy motor from start 2 finish?

Answer 1

I own a shop, and think this: This information is on a sticker on the radiator shroud. If not; then go to the library, and pull a copy of Chilton's Repair Manual. You should be able to find everything you need to know in it. You could also go to the parts store, and purchase a Haynes Repair Manual for your vehicle. There is a lot of ifs here, and not knowing which engine you have, or other vital information needed, your best bet is to go the library, and this way you can get what you need for free.
(1) Run engine until up to operating temprature, and shut off.
(2) Hook timing light to #1 (front wire on drivers side).
(3) Remove & plug vacuum advance hose at distributor.
(4) Loosen hold down under distributor to where you can turn distributor with some effort. Don't want it real loose.
(5) Clean & mark correct mark on harmonic balancer, and timing cover. White out works great, or soap.
(6) Start engine & aim light at marks with engine at specified rpm's, and move distributor till marks align.
(7) Shut engine down, and tighten hold down under distributor.
(8) Aim light at balancer again, start engine, and check again to make sure it stayed where it should be.
(9) Reconnect vacuum hose, and you are done.
The specified timing, and rpm's should be on the sticker I talked about. Note: Some vehicles require you unhook the bypass wire going to the computer before setting the timing. You need a service manual for the proper steps for your particular vehicle, engine, and rpm. A bad temprature sensor can make your timing be off, so make sure you have a good one before setting the timing.
Glad to help out, Good Luck!!!

Answer 2

Start and run motor to close to operating temp. When you are satisfied it's close shut it off and hook your timing light to the motor. Start motor again and make sure it is on the lowest idle position. Unplug and plug the vacuum advance to the dist. Aim your light and adjust timing to whatever you want. This is it for setting the motor's base timing. You should check to see that the mechanical advance works by revving the motor to see if it works while still aiming the light. Then check the vacuum advance by aiming the light and reconnecting the vacuum advance hose to the dist. Some of these also needed to be revved.

Answer 3

get a shop manual...15 dollars at most parts stores