Gravely Model L Timing Marks

I just got a 1974 Model L Super convertible with a Fairbanks Magnito. It needs to have the timing set. The time is set so high it will hardly crank without running a new battery down. I cannot find the timing marks on this magnito. Can someone help?

Click on link below,in manuals listings download owners manual & service manual for fairbanks mag,see if that helps.
gravely

I am NOT a Gravely expert, but IIRC, it has an external mag with an impulse.

If it is like 'most any other engine like that, you set it up so the impulse snaps/mag fires AT TDC and NO earlier.

Even with NO timing marks, it should be possible to gauge piston TDC through the spark plug hole.

The timing is set with the piston 3/8" before top dead center. There should be marks on the mag that you line up and set the 2 with the split collar on the mag shaft.

OK here we are going to have a few different ways. On my model "L" the first thing is to check that short shaft that comes out of the front of the engine. Is has got to be good and TIGHT!! Make sure the colar and mag all line up nice and straight. Last, to be safe and not goof things up, only turn the engine clockwise as you set things up. Slop in engine gears make for lousey adjustments. Take out the plug and see if it will allow you to use a stick or screw driver as a gauge as the piston goes up and down. Orrrr ,blow across the spark hole and you can hear when the valves are closed cause it will whistle a little as the piston comes up. I have the 6.6hp engine so the plug is sideways. The newer 7.7 is straight.
The lock colar and mag and all snugged. The mag should click just a hair before that gauge rod gets all of the way up and same for the whistle. You can set it at true TDC and it will work in warm weather but it is better to set her a little advanced for cold weather starts. Just remember it will run a little hotter this way. Be carefull you do not set it TOO advance or if you pull a little too slow on the pull strap it can suck you right onto the machine. They can really kick back. Your choice. I think that covers it. jeffcat