Distributor/Ignition problems

mrtimstik · #1 10-03-2005, 09:45 PM

Took the distributor out of my small block chevy and put it in I believe incorrectly because the timing marks are past (retarded) the indicator by about 15-20 degrees when I time the car. The car starts right up but runs rough and when I rotate the cap to get the mark to go near the 0 it dies. Backing the rotor 1 tooth produces the exact same indication, I just have to spin the cap to get it to start. MSD 6A ignition has been in for years and just put in an Optima battery. Before my bold adventure timing was 16 before at idle and 35 at 3000 rpm as checked with a seasoned dial back Craftsman light. I am missing something and am completely confused on this problem. I would greatly appreciate any suggestions.

Seattle Sam · #2 10-04-2005, 07:45 AM

Maybe the timing chain slipped??

My old 283 Chevelle would start and back out of the driveway, just couldn't make it up the hill to the road. Timing chain jumped a tooth and retarded the cam..

mrtimstik · #3 10-04-2005, 04:00 PM

Thanks for the response but it has a gear drive cam set-up. I think the balancer spun but this is only a guess. I will play more with it on Wednesday night.

mrtimstik · #4 10-06-2005, 05:56 AM

The verdict is in, The balancer spun. I am now at 60 degrees advanced at idle and runs pretty good

. There are three marks on the balancer and now I use a new one. Basically timed it by ear and drove it around and kept retarding until no ping. Never a dull moment with this thing. Question now is should this balancer be replaced?

**Kurt S** · #5 10-06-2005, 11:48 PM

Yes!!

mrtimstik · #6 10-07-2005, 12:08 AM

Please forgive the amount of questions but... What is the difference between internal and external balanced harmonic balancers? What exactly do I check for so I am sure I am ordering the correct part that will fit? There seems to be quite a few choices. Also please recommendations for your favorite balancer and why you chose it. Thank you very much Tom

**Salvatore** · #7 10-07-2005, 01:02 AM

Externally balanced is when you bolt the flywheel and balancer and balance as a unit. You would remove weight from the crank and add to the flywheel. Must use the same balancer and flywheel with the assembly. External examples 400 SB and 454's. Most drag 454's are internally balanced anyway. Internal balance add and subtract weight from crank and rods. I think the Boss 302 Ford is external balance.