Newbie question on how to use an inductive timing light

[Bustedknuckle84]

:facepalm:i have never used a timing light yet but have 2 of them.
any links or info would be great. basically how does it work? i know what timing is doing just dont understand how to use the timing light.

 

[antique fisherman]

Re: Newbie question on how to use an inductive timing light

On an inductive timing light connect the red wire to the battery , the black wire to the negative. There should be a wire with a large clip with a notch inside, clip this to the wire going to #1 cylinder with the wire in the notch. Aim the light at the timing mark and press the trigger. Adjust the timing until the mark is at the specified degrees before top dead center. I hope this is what you wanted and my info helps. Happy Boating

 

[Bustedknuckle84]

Re: Newbie question on how to use an inductive timing light

yep i needed that info, but how do i find before top dead center on my force motor?

 

[foodfisher]

Re: Newbie question on how to use an inductive timing light

Marks on the flywheel. Lots of info behind the search function.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Newbie question on how to use an inductive timing light

To clarify: On the block above the top carb is a bent plate with a single scribed line. This is the pointer and at any given degree will point to that degree mark on the flywheel. The timing light flashes a bright strobe light when the plug sparks and apparently "stops" the flywheel, allowing you to see the relative positions of the lines. The flywheel will have a single mark indicating top dead center then a couple of inches to the right a group of usually three marks. The center long mark will be 30 degrees before top dead center and the mark to the left of it will be 28 degrees. To set the timing, you adjust the screw under the front of the flywheel (between two black plastic pieces.). This must be done at wide open throttle and when the pointer line is in line with the flywheel line, the timing is correct. Fill the lines with white paint to make them easier to see against the black flywheel and pointer.
Search posts to find more detailed instructions.

 

[Bustedknuckle84]

Re: Newbie question on how to use an inductive timing light

actually frank that helps alot i have the manual and have done alittle research, but your explanation helps alot. another question i have is you stated WOT in gear or out of gear in the water? can it be check without being on the water?

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Newbie question on how to use an inductive timing light

You can not set the throttle to WOT unless the engine is in gear. Sometimes, if I am with another person and the water is calm, I will time the engine at full throttle on the water.

However, these engines can be timed statically while on the trailer and of course, it is safer--no rotating flywheel to bounce your head into. Disconnect the fuel and empty the carb so the engine can not start. Remove and ground all the plugs but hook up the light to the top one. Set the engine to wide open throttle and check the timing while cranking. Correct timing is 28 deg BTDC at cranking and 30 deg while running. If you do not have someone to help turn the key, turn the ignition key to run and at the solenoid jump from the battery connection to the smaller yellow wire terminal (start) On late 90 Forces, the wire may be a different color.

Do not adjust the screw while running or cranking. To do so invites membership into the nine finger club. You stop, make an adjustment then start and check again. Do this until the timing is correct. Turning the screw clockwise closes the distance between the plastic blocks and advances the timing.

 

[Bustedknuckle84]

Re: Newbie question on how to use an inductive timing light

you make it sound so simple, very good explanation, i feel alot more confident in timing it now.