<VV> Frustrating weekend

[kenpepke at juno.com]

Chris said [in part]:

>So, I was trying to adjust the timing and use the
>timing light and keep the engine from stalling and restart it whenever it
>would stall all at the same time.
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Setting the timing with the engine not running by using a test light or a volt
meter will give the most accurate setting of the static timing because there
in no possibility of the vacuum modulator or the advance weights affecting
the outcome.  A test light inserted between the primary [small] wire from the
coil to the distributor is the easiest because the light is either on or off and
not subject to the bouncing of the volt meter needle.  With the ignition 'off'
turn the engine by hand until the timing mark on the pulley is aligned with 
the desired mark on the stationary indicator.   [Note: It does not matter if #1
cylinder is set to fire or if its twin is set to fire.]  It is important that the 
secondary [heavy] wire from the middle of the distributor is removed from the
distributor cap and grounded.  The ignition switch must be in the  'on'  position
as the distributor is rotated back and forth in smaller and smaller amounts 
until the test light just goes out.  Tighten the distributor retaining nut firmly as
it will not be necessary to move it again until the points start to wear.  This 
method will not work for most electronic systems.

At this point you will know if the engine has turned a bearing because it will
require more that the maximum of 25 foot pounds torque to turn the crank 
to the timing position.

I would properly charge and load test the battery.  Once it is known to be 
good I would test for and correct voltage 'drop' at each one of the connections.  
[such things as loose or corroded connections and 'green' copper wires.] And 
yes, there are many things that can go wrong inside a starter motor that
will not show up until it is under the load of cranking the engine.  Worn 
bearings will usually make noise as the armature hits the field coils and will
show marks in the area of contact.  An armature with opens in the windings will
make no noise and run well until it is required to turn the engine.  The best 
way to check a starter is to temporally replace it with one known to be good.  

Ken P


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