Link 'n Sync help - '84 Johnny 90hp

[Thirsty Endgrain]

J90MLCRD

Went about doing the link 'n sync yesterday in hopes of getting her running nicely, as I recently got a timing light, and checked timing. Pickup timing was appx. 1ºATDC so things seemed to be off. Spec is 3º-5º BTDC for my engine. Flywheel key in tact btw.

I tried following the FSM pages that I have, but since they cover multiple years and engines it's a bit confusing, mine for instance doesn't have a thumbwheel adjustment for pickup timing.

The TDC mark seemed to be on already. Made the cam follower contact the small mark on the cam. Started and warmed it up, in forward gear, but then this is where I don't really see what to do to adjust the pickup timing. I don't have thumbwheel screw. I adjusted with the idle speed screw instead, which I know is wrong. I then set WOT spark advance using Joe Reeves' method. 28º is spec, so I subtracted 4º to get 24º and set it at that, needed some adjustment, was at about 21º.

Attaching pics of the manual, and my linkage on my engine. Any input greatly appreciated!

 

[flyingscott]

You don't care about idle timing, which is stated in the Joe reeves method, You set idle speed in gear and a warm motor on the water.

 

[Thirsty Endgrain]

Ok. It's hard to know what's the correct method with so many videos and manuals and writeups on this. Thanks.

 

[flyingscott]

Ok. It's hard to know what's the correct method with so many videos and manuals and writeups on this. Thanks.

The joe reeves method works well. Just make sure after you timed it you tighten the lock nut down and double check it.

 

[havoc_squad]

Assuming you got the max timing right using Joe Reeves method and timing pointer is accurate...

The control arm that aligns with the carb linkage cam follower timing adjustment is too early. It needs to be adjusted so the cam follower is touching and aligned center with the mark between 3 to 5 degrees BTDC.

AFTER you get that correctly done, then adjust the idle speed screw in the water in gear not tied up/held.

 

[RBoyd1971]

You pull that Carter key out that's in the post close to the roller, remove the washer, pull the plastic piece off the post, screw it out to retard the timing and screw it in to advance it for pickup timing, then put it back on the post, put the washer back on, then the carter key back in. Run and check it with the timing light and repeat till it's correct.