I have access to a diesel timing light and was qurious on any tips using it to set my timing. I don't know what my timing is at now but want to get it to 16* thanks.

 

from what I understand, a light can be a handy way to see where you're at, but to just pick a number and set it, the old dial indicator method is the best way to hit it on the dot the first time.

Forrest

 

How do you use it to find where you are at? Is it basically like a gasser?

 

It's just like a gasser, except you have to make the timing marks yourself first. Find TDC using the TDC pin, then I usually make a white line on the harmonic balancer on the driver side, right where the belt comes off it. Another option is to paint a line on the other side, right at the edge of the crank sensor.

 

I should add, for adjustment purposes, the flat on the front of the crank sensor is about 10 degrees. After breaking loose the inj. pump gear, use the alternator pulley to turn the engine backwards however many degrees you wish to advance it.

 

What you do is use timing tape that is calibrated to the diameter of your dampener. Tape it to the dampener starting with zero at TDC.
Piers or the folks that sell the lights also carry tape. You could also make your own tape if you divide the circumference of the dampener by 360 and use that distance to make 20 or so labeled marks on a piece of tape.
The lights are great for checking timing but not for changing it, a dial indicator is soooo much easier.

 

Don't forget to pull the vacum line off and plug it with a golf tee