How can I ascertain the RPM of my engine, so that I can calibrate my electronic tachometer??

The tachometer has a senser that straddles the seam of the alternator.

What is the standard idle RPM of a 1st Gen??

 

I would find someone, probably a mechanic, that has a photo tach. Its a tool that has a laser that aims at the dampner and counts rotation. this is a true reading and can be compaired with your tach.
I dont know tha factory spec for idle RPM, but I try and set mine for the smoothest place between 600 and 800 RPM.
Good luck

 

Proper idle always sounds too high to me. But it works the best! It should be 750-800 in Drive with the A/C on. This will reduce vibration and not give you the scary Oil light at idle when hot.

 

Another name for the tool you need is a Strobe Tach. It uses a flashing strobe light that you adjust the speed at which it flashes. The idea is to make the harmonic balancer appear to be sitting still. The rpm is then read off the dial. BE Careful. I have witnessed a mechanic stick his fingers in a fan. It looks like it isn't moving, but it is.

 

I got mine close by flooring the pedal until the govenor leveled it out and then I set it to 2800 rpm. I'm guessing that when the govenor spring is set for 2800 that's the max the engine will turn. Anyone else have any thoughts on this?

Eventually I'll run across somebody with a optical tach but it's not a high priority.

Edwin

 

Hey edwinsmith,
that is the same way I calibrated my tach . I let her get all nice and warmed up(thermostat cycled 3 times) then hammered her to the floor. I really did not feel confortable doing this this way.