What's the best timing setting for a truck like the 97 in my signature (2174 CPL with 180 pump)? I don't want to have any problems with the stock head gasket, but would like to maximize MPG and overall potential. I have plans for something around a #8 or #10 plate probably with a 3k GSK. Is the stock setting on this truck 14 degrees?

I called a couple of local shops and they both want $250 to adjust it, one said they pin the motor and use a degree wheel. Another price quote was from the secretary who wasn't sure.

What if any method of setting the timing should I be asking for? What kind of results should I expect from the stock motor and after mods from bumping the timing up?

 

Try to find a place that does it for $150. I'd set it to 14.5 for best fuel economy, performance, and safety. I think stock is 13. You'll hear people say set it to 16 but to each their own. Take it to a shop that knows 12 valves. If they use the book, it says to use the timing pin to set top dead center. The pin is not an accurate way to do this. There's different ways; one is the drop-valve method. After TDC, there's only one way to set timing. Use a dial indicator in the 1st injector port of the injection valve, etc. I got my tools for about $100, though I haven't done it yet. I need more info on the drop-valve method.

 

I too am still hunting the best info on timing adj. I bought a dial just need to build a bracket and give it a try. Any one want to post the best DIY link for timing adj. on the p-pump? Thanks

 

Where did you get the tools for $100? Anyone in Southwest Missouri with tools and experience to set timing?

 

I too have a slightly mod'ed 12V (see sig.) and have the timing set at 15.5. I had it set by a shop here in So. California back in Nov. The cost was $150 + $20Valve Cover gaskets. Noticible difference combined with the 3K GSK.

 

Where in So Cal did you have the work done? What is the name of the shop?

 

How far are you from St. James, MO? If you can ride up there you can have one of the finest 12v mechanics in the country fix you up. Give Keith a call, at Forest City Diesel, 573-265-5595. He's also on here as "Rammin On" and a sponsor.
My 12v is set at 15.5, and I am quite happy with it, well, I could stand a bit more power, but 21mpg on the highway.

Chris

 

Chris:

Thanks for the info, St. James is a little over 2hrs from me and I actually do some work there occasionally. I'll give him a call.

 

best link to instructions, set timing 12v?

 

http://dodgeram.info/tsb/1994/18-10-94a.htm

 

I got the barring tool from Cummins, the DV socket from Piers (I think), and the dial indicator from Harbo Freight. I made the dial indicator holder out of an old oil drain plug since it has the same threads as the DV hole. Finally, you can rent a steering wheel puller from Autozone for free.

 

14 degrees is stock for my truck, I couldn't actually see the engine tag but got the wifes camera in there.

 

I'll have to check my tag now. If 14 is stock then I'd bump it up to 15-15.5. Looks like you got a clean engine there.

 

14 is stock on my 98. i would say bump her to 15.5 i plan on 16 for mine.

 

Thanks guys for the link. Mine to is a 97 auto and the tag says 14 im going for 16.5 or 17 in my application i did studs and .20 marine gasket already. Question- why not just hold a damper bolt rather than the barring tool? Still have not done it just curious as this was how i planned to try. I made a magnetic bracket and it just didnt work, ill have to remake it and try again tomorrow, i liked the oil pan bolt trick i may try that. Thanks again