hi ya'll so working on my 37 ford panel with a 59AB and since this is a new project, i have done all the necessaries involved in a first start. it started up and runs ok but i'd like to set the timing, vacuum etc. it has a updated mallory electronic distributor. i can't locate any timing marks so its gonna be a hunt and peck operation. my question may be an obvious one but this is my first time with this type of distributor so please bear with me. my question is how do you move the distributor while the engine is running without losing a finger or worse? is there another way to set the timing that i don't know about? which is very possible since i'm new to the hobby! thanks for any and all input. much appreciated!
As you say there are no marks on the crank pulley or a reference pointer on the block. I filed a notch into the pulley and made and installed a reference pointer on a timing cover bolt that align with each other at TDC #1 cylinder. I then rotated the distributor until the points opened on #1 in the cap. If your distributor has a multi-spark function, you'll need a non didital timing light to check timing with the engine running. I am using the same Mallory with points. You may have to connect the timing light to # 1 plug and twist the distributor until the light flashes to get the initial setting. I hope this helps.
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