Been reading the posts about folks setting their timing up several degrees. Most speak of the mileage and power increases. Everything looks promising according to what I have read. Is there a down-side to this?

Also, if one decided to do this how do you determine what the appropriate number would be?

 

I wouldn't do a timing adjustment without a DC or Cummins service manual, myself,but this is a good place to read-up on it.<br>http://dodgeram.org/

 

From looking at your signature I am assuming that your truck is basicly stock. If so setting the timing at 15.5* should be nominal. If you have a well built truck turning high rpm's then they can go up to the high 20's, but not with a stock head or gasket. Going above 18* on a stock head gasket might leave you stranded. Lower egt's and higher fuel mileage are a plus of 15.5*'s.

 

That is correct. The truck is basically stock. 3K and 370's are on the way. With the addition of these would there be any point in moving higher than 15.5?<br>

 

With the 3k springs I would say no. I would go ahead and get 3.5 or 4k springs and o-ring and go to 18*, but thats just me.

 

4X4,

With just injectors and 3K kit, I'd agree with Cmonroe and say 15.5 is fine. If, however, later on you add a plate (#10 is awsome, believe me, but you need a PDR HX40/16), turbo, exhaust and intake air improvements, then 16.0 to 16.5 is better. In all cases, higher timing means higher internal pressures and greater chance of blowing the head gasket. However, I believe that up to the mid 16's you're still pretty safe as long as you drive it responsibly. I intend to move mine up to 16+ soon.

Just be advised that timing the 215 can be more of a challenge than the smaller pumps. I know, I spent a couple of days cutting my teeth on doing timings with mine, discovering the challenges it can present (and I wasn't watching what I was doing). I then had to eat crow after running quite a thread on my difficulties, which were my fault, over on the TDR. Also, if whoever times it does so using the timimg pin, it won't be as accurate. The pins can be off slightly from dead-on TDC.

-Jay

After thought: Just noticed you have an auto. You should have the 180 pump. These are easier to time. Never mind the part about the 215 pump! What I said about the timing pin still goes in all cases, though.

 

Guys, I appreciate your input. I am going to have certified technician do the job. Hopefully he will be aware of the timing pin thing. If not I will point it out, based on your posts. Thanks again.

 

Had my timing advanced to 16. Noticed improved mileage, a little more pep. But, did notice harder starts due to lower idle speed. Corrected with bumping it up. Of concern was perhaps a bit more oil consumption (now at 1 qt for 4,000 mi). Haven't had the truck long enough to know if this was usual, but kept track and it seemed to drop more after the timing change. Any connection between the two and if so what to watch out for. Planning gauges, fuel plate and gov springs this summer. Thanks.<br><br>Paul

 

Notice you are in north Georgia. Before you wast you money I would suggest that you go see Jeff Garmon In McDonough GA. Will be the best value for your time you will ever spend.

 

D4, <br>How do I get hold of Jeff? Sent you a PM also.