Checking engine RPM

I will be purchasing a timing light so I can set the timing during the initial start up of my rebuilt flathead. I need the break in the cam shaft and need to know the RPM's to do that correctly.

Will a timing gun give the RPM's or do I need another gauge.

Thanks, John

 

Tachometer is what you need. There probably are some fancy timing lights that have a tach built in, but I don't have one

 

Plenty of combo units available but prices can get 'up there'. It probably will be cheaper to two separate pieces.

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Thanks for the info.

John

 

When I couldn't find a replacement bulb for my ancient timing light I bit the bullet and bought a new gun that has the LCD display and buttons that allow you to advance/retard and it has a large backlit display for RPM. It works great and was around $100.

If it had a built in vacuum guage it would be perfect.