side mount distributor timing

Can someone tell me how to set the timing on a side mount distributor on my 8n

Check out tip # 39. That question (and many others) is covered in the I&T FO4 manual.

So, while you are waiting for the manuals to arrive......

Remove the #1 spark plug. (removing all of them makes the job a bit easier) Ignition off, place your thumb over the #1 spark plug hole and crank slowly until compression is felt. Continue to crank the engine until you see the timing mark, 0* (top dead center) on the flywheel through the timing hole in the right side of the bell housing. Use chalk on the flywheel to exactly align the 4 degree mark with the pointer. Loosen the hold down bolt on the distributor. Rotate the distributor housing counter clockwise until the points are closed. Put the cap on & double check the plug wires, 1-2-4-3, CCW. Then, remove the primary wire from the side of the distributor (or at the coil, whichever is easier) Put one lead of your VOM (set on resistance) on the stud on the side of the distributor & the other on the block or other good ground. Slowly turn the distributor. The needle will move as the points close & then open. Find the exact spot just as the points open & then tighten down the distributor.

Now check your work (and the dynamic timing) w/ a light.

If it won't idle below 500 rpm (400 is better) don't bother w/ a light.

If it idles ok, make 3 marks w/ chalk or white paint on the flywheel:

4*
10*
17*

Start the engine.

At idle, the light should flash & the marker should line up exactly at 4* if you did the static timing correctly.

If not, loosen the distributor & turn it until the marks line up. It should take very little adjustment.

Once you've got that done, increase the engine speed to 1200 rpms. The light should flash & the marker should line up w/ the 10* mark. Then, increase the rpms to 2000 & look for the marker to align w/ the 17* mark.

Close counts on the advanced timing. A degree or 2 either way is ok. But, no movement or 5* or more off means you have an advance weight problem. You don't adjust the distributor to fix that.
75 Tips

Thanks for the reminder on how to set timing. I set timing and put points in my sidemount about eight years ago, and was thinking about doing a tune-up. It still pulls a box blade full of dirt and the brush cutter though. I must have got some good points. Just letting you know alot of us use the forum"s good info, even if we do not respond. I have forgotten how to do some of the things on my 8n over the years, as it runs so well. If it is not broke, do not fix it. Thanks to all who answer the questions.

" Thanks to all who answer the questions. "

You're welcome. Thanks for saying so.

" I set timing and put points in my sidemount about eight years ago...."

It's been about 5 years since I put points in my 51 sidemount. I check the gap & lube the cam every fall.
75 Tips