Setting The Timing.........

[jerryd]

Does anybody know the correct timing settings for a 186 holden motor ???

I was having trouble starting the car from cold and hot, but it ran fine. Then a friend of a friend adjusted the distributor position which made it start first time, but now it doesn't run too well on the road

It lacks power and is "pinking" under load, I've tried adjusting the distributor position again and have got it running a bit better, but it's still not right.

[bee utey]

Optimum timing depends on the compression ratio, the petrol quality and air temperature. Try around 3 to 6 degrees first, then adjust either way. if you are having difficulty starting consider fitting an electronic ignition dissy off a later motor. Works a treat.

[wrinklearthur]

What your friend has done to the timing to improve the starting, it sounds like is it's probably retarded to about top dead centre or beyond that position.

A easy fix for now.

Clean and check the points - .020" and the spark plug gaps - .035".

Turn crankshaft over until the 6° timing mark on the front cover aligns with the notch on the pulley, then slacken the clamp bolt at the base of the distributor, slacken just enough so you can just spin the body of the distributor and firm enough to stay put while working on it.

With the ignition on and the cap off, rotate the distributor in a direction that advances the distributor and then at the instant the points open, there is a faint spark across the contacts, stop and check that the spark is still present by lightly moving the distributor shaft.

Tighten the clamp bolt down at the bottom of the distributor and put the distributor cap back on.

Enjoy a drive in the countryside.
.