Link and Sync - #1 plug in or out and other timing questions?

[dsiekman]

I have seen various answers and suggestions on this topic. Doing a link and sync on 2.5l V6. The manual says to remove all plugs and insert a spark gap tool and ground all plugs. Others on the forum when describing the process say to remove all plugs except #1 where the pickup is placed. Which is correct and why?

Second, the manual notes three different timing settings: Idle speed/pickup timing (0-9 ATDC), Maximum BTDC at cranking speed (24 BTDC), and Maximum BTDC at WOT RPM (18 BTDC). To me, Idle speed/pickup timing and Max BTDC would be the same, but clearly I am misunderstanding something. I guess I assumed cranking speed was the same RPM as Idle, but maybe not? To be showing BTDC would it not have to be significantly faster than idle?

My idle spec is 650 RPM. Does that mean that with the engine running and at idle speed my timing should be 0-9 ATDC, but if I am just cranking it over with plugs out it should be 24 BTDC?

 

[dsiekman]

SOLVED! - First, I did not have the ignition turned on, so no spark which means no signal to the timing light. If anyone has questions about how to ground the plugs, I used some stainless machine screws I had laying around. I wrapped a short piece of wire around each screw and pushed them into the plug cap. Then connected the wires together and tied them back to the block with a large alligator clip.

Second, the throttle arm was hanging up on a hose clamp on the fuel pump, so when I did the original link and sync (without removing the intake), the carbs were not closing all the way. That screwed up every step following and the timing was WAY out of spec.

Third, the timing (even before my screw-up) was out of spec. It always idled high. Like 1200 or so. Now that we are in spec it idles at about 800 in the water in neutral.

I'm still fighting air in the fuel line, but that should be easy enough to track down.