Timing My Outboard

SeaRanger

Recruit
Joined
Mar 29, 2003
Messages
2
Hi Guys<br /><br />Could anyone please tell me the procedure for timing my outboard, it is a 70 evinrude 80s model,or do i need to have this done by a proffesional, i am mechanically minded, any help really appreciated.<br /><br />Regards<br /><br />SeaRanger :)
 

OBJ

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Dec 27, 2002
Messages
10,161
Re: Timing My Outboard

Hi SeaRanger and welcome to the forum.<br /><br />There was a post not long ago about timing but can't remember when so I'll give it to ya here.<br /><br />This will get you close until you can get it on the water. Remove the spark plugs and hook up a spark checker to the spark plug wires. Advance the throttle (control handle) to WOT (Wide Open Throttle). With the timing light connected to #1 spark plug wire, crank the engine and aim light at marks on flywheel. Using this method, set the timing 4 degrees lower than specs, ie. if timing specs say 19BTDC, set at 15. Once in the water you can double check and make any adjustments. You will need to be at WOT at a min. of 5000rpms to set with engine running. I've used the method and it's real accurate. Any questions please post.
 

Joe Reeves

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Feb 24, 2002
Messages
13,262
Re: Timing My Outboard

Sparkroost..... In addition to OutboardJims instructions, I'll add the following to answer your question about the 4°.<br /><br />(Timing At Cranking Speed 4°)<br />The full spark advance can be adjusted without have the engine running at near full throttle as follows. <br /><br />To set the timing on that engine, have the s/plugs out, and have the throttle at full, set that timer base under the flywheel tight against the rubber stop on the end of the full spark timer advance stop screw (wire it against that stop if necessary). <br /><br />Rig a spark tester and have the spark gap set to 7/16". Hook up the timing light to the #1 plug wire. Crank the engine over and set the spark advance to 4° less than what the engine calls for. <br /><br />I don't know full spark advance setting your engine calls for, but to pick a figure, say your engine calls for 28°, set the timing at 24°. The reasoning for the 4° difference is that when the engine is actually running, due to the nature of the solid state ignition componets, the engine gains the extra 4°. <br /><br />If you set the engine to its true setting at cranking speed, when running it will advance beyond its limit by 4° which will set up pre-ignition causing guaranteed piston damage! You don't want that to take place. <br /><br />No need to be concerned about the idle timing as that will take care of itself. The main concern is the full advance setting. <br /><br />Be sure to use your own engines spark advance settings, not the one I picked out of the air here in my notes
 

sparkroost

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Mar 23, 2003
Messages
312
Re: Timing My Outboard

Joe, just wanted to get a few things you said in your post crystal clear.<br /><br />reason for removing the plugs and installing a gap tester is to give the coils a load so they don't crack plug wires or jump to say..(not to mention you need a load for the timing light to work) me?<br /><br />Timing should never be checked with engine running?<br /><br />Also.. I need to check my timing pointer. Do I HAVE to have the piston stop tool and the dial to do it? Can't I guestimate TDC by feel in the cylinder?<br /><br />Thanks for all your answers. This board is EXCELLENT!!
 

Solittle

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Apr 28, 2002
Messages
7,518
Re: Timing My Outboard

Spark - I tried to find TDC and was not satisfied by any of my "makedo" methods. I bought one for around $10.00 from:<br /><br />WWW.powerhouseproducts.com<br />800-872-7223<br /><br />Nice & helpful folks.<br /><br />Howard
 

ftthom

Recruit
Joined
Mar 25, 2003
Messages
4
Re: Timing My Outboard

To set timing using this method does a spark tester need to be hooked up to every spark plug wire or just the one the timing light is on
 

Hooty

Rear Admiral
Joined
Oct 2, 2001
Messages
4,496
Re: Timing My Outboard

Each plug wire should be grounded to keep from screwing up the cdi.Timing light on nr. 1.<br /><br />c/6<br /><br />Hooty
 

rudeafrican

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Oct 29, 2002
Messages
225
Re: Timing My Outboard

Joe, <br />I dig your title, OMC guru, a well deserved and very descriptive title if ever there was one. Thanks for giving your time and expertise so freely. It is much appreciated.
 
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