Volvo Penta 570A Timing Question

[rdc54yty]

I want to time my 89-93 era 275hp 570A's (GM 350). They have Prestolite distributors w/mechanical advance. The advance mechanism was cleaned, lubed in the last 2 years. Wording in the Volvo manual for the 570 is...

"Basic setting (idle speed) 6 BTDC. Stroboscopic setting at 3K RPM is 23 BTDC."

My question is should I set the 3K timing to 23 or 29 (23+basic) degrees?

I've read that GM 350 total advance is typically around 30 degrees. If I remember correctly, the last time I timed these a total advance of 23 gave me a way retarded reading at idle.

Thx for the help.

 

[Don S]

Re: Volvo Penta 570A Timing Question

Set it at idle, the 3000 rpm test is just to verify the advance is working.

 

[rdc54yty]

Re: Volvo Penta 570A Timing Question

Simple. I like that. Thanks Don. If, after I set the idle timing the reading at 3K is way above 23, does that mean it's time for new advance springs?

 

[Don S]

Re: Volvo Penta 570A Timing Question

Yes