Title says it all, what symptoms or signs would I have of the pump timing being too low or retarded?

 

for starters EGTs will be higher, it will run like a pig (not real peppy) lower MPGs,lower HP.
this is why most of us bump the timing up . it helps most of us out. to much timing for a tow rig or some power adders can be bad...like propane

here some more


retarded -------- advanced
EGTs up ---------- lower
cyl, pressure lower --------- higher
intake man pres. up ----------- lower
mpgs lower ---------- up
nox lower ---------- higher
heat rejection up ------------ down
smoke@1k up ------------ lower
smoke @peak TQ lower ----------- higher
smoke @ rated HP up ------------ lower
white smoke<1k up ------------ up
white smoke >1k up ---------- up
noise lower --------- more
all this is variable diff.engine can respond diff. but for the most part it gives you an idea.

 

So advancing the timing acctually takes power away?

 

Nevermind i get it now

 

OK, thanks Rebal...
think mine is too low...
runs like a pig, poor mpg and a definite lack of power...

 

just for hoots:

gas engine? check the catalitic converter for a plug

diesel engine? check the silver exhaust canister behind/underneath the turbo.

lot of white smoke and wet vapor at the exhaust tube? retarded by -30 degrees. don't forget to adjust the lean ratio too, no need to add to your worries by blowing out a valve.

Heidi, who's neighbor has a kick butt first gen that I tune up, so easy to fix.

try not to live in this one. 4wheel drive?