Setting Timing

[jrcotner]

I'm the proud new caretaker of a 1971 Haflinger 700 AP and am familiarizing myself the operation and maintenance. I have all of the manuals which are always helpful, but there are a few mods not covered, namely a Pertronix ignition.

What is the recommended timing with the Pertronix installed? What RPM should the motor be at when adjusting the timing? There are currently NGK BR6HS spark plugs installed which will need to be replaced soon. Is this the preferred plug with the Pertronix? I've seen NGK B7HS and Bosch W5AC suggested, but no mention if they were for the electronic ignition.

Thanks in advance for all of your help.

[jrcotner]

I should have been clearer. I'm trying to set total timing and am wondering about the RPM points and expected advance at those points. I assume basic timing would start at 8 degrees BTDC at 700 RPM. Is total timing even important on this motor or should I just set basic timing? Still curious on your thoughts about spark plugs.

Thanks,

John Cotner
New Ulm, MN

[Czechsix]

From what I recall, I just set basic timing and it was fine. I played around with it a bit, but returned to the basic setting.

[Heinkeljb]

Once you have the engine running you can always adjust the timing by turning the distributor a little bit. Just remember that if you make it too lean and too far advanced, you run the risk of burning a hole in the top of the pistons. You could always see if you can find a tool like the "Colourtune" that was made at the time the Haflingers were made. Basically a sparkplug with a glass window which allowed you to see the colour of the exploding air/petrol mixture. That way you could adjust both the carb settings and the timing to get the correct colour.

John