Timing question please

[Rafilla]

Hello to all,

My 1970 Dodge Challenger has installed a 69 440 4 barrel (not matching numbers) with a 4 speed manual transmision. motor code 2536430-8. comes with electronic ignition

Im going to set up the timing, what is the timing for this engine please?

If its possible I appreciated a little education to do

thanks in advance

best regards
PS: I can upload pics of the engine

[Rafilla]

1968 engine apologies

[70chall440]

is the engine not running at the moment? Just trying to establish where we are in the process. Also, what carb are you running, what cam, are you running headers, are there any other modifications to the engine, etc.? All this has a direct impact on setting timing.

If it isnt running, you need to

- get the engine set to Top Dead Center (TDC) by rotating the engine (by hand or bumping the starter) so that the line on the harmonic balancer is lined up with the mark/plate on the timing cover
- make sure the rotor in the distributor is underneath/pointed at the #1 spark plug terminal
- ensure all of the wires are correct as per the firing sequence (18436572)

This should allow you to get the engine running. You might have to advance/retard the timing a little to get it going (you want the distributor clamp snug but not super tight, ideally you want to be able to move the distributor by hand but frequently you have to have it tighter so it won't move when running, thus requiring a wrench).

You will need to disconnect and plug the vacuum advance.

You are going to be dealing with 2 timing settings; base (initial) and total. While the initial is a published number, the reality is every engine is different and depending on what has been done to it, what is on it, the initial number may range from 0 deg to perhaps 15 deg or more. My 440 runs 15 deg initial. Basically, you are trying to find an initial that allows the engine to start (hot and cold) well and idle.

The second timing issue is total; this is typically around 36-38 deg (again depending on what your engine wants/needs). This is accomplished by raising the RPM once the engine is warm/hot to around 2000 - 2200 RPM and adjusting the distributor or modifying the distributor (weights, springs, etc).

There are many here who far more adept at this than I am and can go into extensive detail about how to achieve the best timing possible. You do need to understand that timing is but one component in the overall operation of the engine, everything is reliant on everything else to work as best as possible. What I mean is that timing is only one issue in many that have a direct effect on the efficiency and drivability of the vehicle. Everything must play well together and this is where the real magic is. In other words, you get set the timing and get it to run, but if there are issues with the induction, exhaust, cam, etc. it is going to be frustrating (which is what hot rodding is all about) 

[70chall440]

I took this off another site (just google "setting timing on a 440" and you will get lots to read).

As for timing and initial starting;
** preoil the engine, use a 1/2 inch drill turning in the counter clockwise position and use a priming rod (make or purchase). Run the drill and slowly rotate the engine over to preoil the top end. You should see 80-100 lb of oil pressure

1 Make sure the fuel bowls are full.
2. Make #1 cylinder top dead center on the compression stroke. Your timing light attaches to this wire.
3. Usually the oil pump drive slot should be in the 6 oclock to 12 oclock direction (front to back).
4. Insert distributor, the vacuum cannister should be on the drivers side of the distributor.
5. #1 spark terminal should be in the 7 to 8 oclock position, holding the cap over the distributor rotate the distributor so the rotor so is directly below the #1 spark plug terminal in the cap. snug the distributor but dont tighten yet. You should be able to still move it.
6. Fire the engine the set the timing for approx 36 degrees at 2000 rpm

Get a couple of buddies to help to check for fuel leaks, oil leaks, double check the plug wiring, electrical.... extra eye's doesn't hurt.

[Rafilla]

Hello

thank you 70chall440!!!

yes the car starts good buthave a throtle delay when you push the throtle and I think is timing dwell

Im going to see the carb but I think that is the original one

best regards from Spain

[70chall440]

A "throttle delay" more than likely is a carb issue, could be distributor if isnt advancing correctly. Check for vacuum leaks (cracked hoses, hoses not sealing, carb to intake gasket, etc). You do this in a many ways to include just visual, but I have had luck with carb cleaner; with the vehicle running, give little squirts around things like the carb to intake area, if the RPM increases you have a leak.

[Rafilla]

A "throttle delay" more than likely is a carb issue, could be distributor if isnt advancing correctly. Check for vacuum leaks (cracked hoses, hoses not sealing, carb to intake gasket, etc). You do this in a many ways to include just visual, but I have had luck with carb cleaner; with the vehicle running, give little squirts around things like the carb to intake area, if the RPM increases you have a leak.

Thank you!!!

I need to check it!!!!

If its the distributor than not advancing correctly what is the solution???

Thanks amd best regards

[70chall440]

You can change the springs to increase or decrease the advance speed.

[Rafilla]

I cannt tune the the distributor advance with the stroboscopic pistol?? In high rpm??

[70chall440]

You can set advance/retard (aka timing) with your pistol but you cannot change the rate at which it advances, the springs and weights do that.

[Rafilla]

Thank you 70chall440

This weekend I make pics of engine, carb, electronic ignition..... to update the info

Best regards