Volvo 3.0GS 1995 electronic ignition timing

[rjburns]

I am in Colorado at about 6,000' alt. and I have read all the manuals on ignition timing of the 3.0GS at 0 degrees with advance disabled via a shunt. My boat is a 17.5 Crestliner alum. and was sluggish and got about 3.5mpg. I advanced the timing to 2 degrees using the shunt and the boat performed better and I got about 4-4.5 mpg.<br />I asked many local dealers and they said I'd better get it back to 0 degrees because these engines with burn head gaskets, etc. I can't believe that altitude isn't a factor. Does anyone have experience with advancing the timing at altitude? I am willing to give up performance if the 2 degrees will harm the engine.<br />Thanks,<br />Ron

 

[Bondo]

Re: Volvo 3.0GS 1995 electronic ignition timing

IF, you Know How to tune a motor, by Plug Inspections,+ such........<br />You could give it a Try............<br />If you Aren't a "MotorHead", <br />You'd Better listen to the Dealer.......<br /><br />Then go Find someone who Can do it for You.........<br /><br />ALot Can be done to Tune for Altitude.........<br />But, One Mistake, Leaves Big Holes in the Tops of Pistons...............

 

[rjburns]

Re: Volvo 3.0GS 1995 electronic ignition timing

Bondo,<br />Thanks for response, I have read plugs and they seem to be in light brown to grey range, detect no detonation, but am told that you find it hard to detect in boats. Not sure I classify as motor head in that I have only built old motorcycle and car engines. Boats seem way different as far as they run at lower temps, etc and are full duty type engines. Would like to hear from anyone who has actually advanced timing on a 3.0

 

[Bondo]

Re: Volvo 3.0GS 1995 electronic ignition timing

I'm Only at 260', So I'm No Authority........... <br />

Boats seem way different as far as they run at lower temps, etc and are full duty type engines.

Full Duty, No Doubt........<br />Block Temps run a little Cooler,<br />But Cylinder Temps are Higher........<br />That's where you'll get into Trouble.......<br />Just Don't let it go Lean.......<br /><br />Good Luck...<br />I Know we've got some Mountain Men on here Somewhere..........

 

[rodbolt]

Re: Volvo 3.0GS 1995 electronic ignition timing

hello<br /> check the timing at WOT. the idle timing may or may not be a factor. the EST uses an electronic advance. so they need to be checked at WOT. good luck and keep posting