Re: Timing marks 1955 Bigtwin

[RICHARD A. WHITE]

quote 1946Zephyr:

The timing varies, each time you twist the throttle. What do you mean by “setting the timing?” It’s not like the distributor on a car. The throttle linkage does have to be in sync with the mag plate though, or you’ll tire yourself out trying to start it. 😉
The correct point gap will determine the correct time for the points to close, though

Can’t say I agree with this… Actually it is like setting the timing for a car. Franks tool, as well as the OEM tool, set the points to break at the optimal time, for arguments sake, lets say 5 degrees BTDC. Just setting the gap, by itself, only gets it "close enough" for the average Joe. You could easily be off by 2 or even 5 degrees, which will still allow the motor to run, just not as good as it could
This has been discussed at length in previous posts. While just setting the gap will work, for insanely slow idle, only the timing tool, or just plain getting luck will do it.
I had a timing degree "wheel", a piece of paper with 360 lines around the perimeter, that slipped over the mag, when setting the timing, using just the points method, then checking with Frank’s tool, I was 3 degrees off. that will clearly effect the performance of the motor, and yup she ran…

And I must confess, I say this with the utmost respect for your knowledge.

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