* Timing light
* Wrench
* Screwdriver
Step 1: Prepare the Engine
1. Turn off the engine and let it cool down.
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
3. Remove the distributor cap.
4. Locate the timing mark on the harmonic balancer. It is usually a small notch or line.
5. Locate the timing mark on the distributor housing. It is usually a small arrow or hash mark.
Step 2: Set the Initial Timing
1. Connect the timing light to the battery and the engine.
2. Start the engine and let it warm up to operating temperature.
3. Turn on the timing light. You will see a bright flash of light pointing at the timing marks.
4. Loosen the distributor hold-down clamp with a wrench.
5. Turn the distributor housing clockwise or counterclockwise until the timing mark on the distributor lines up with the timing mark on the harmonic balancer.
6. Tighten the distributor hold-down clamp.
Step 3: Set the Total Timing
1. Disconnect the vacuum hose from the distributor.
2. Plug the vacuum hose with a rubber cap or screw.
3. Rev the engine to 2,500 RPM.
4. Aim the timing light at the timing marks again.
5. Adjust the distributor housing until the timing mark on the distributor is 36° before the timing mark on the harmonic balancer.
6. Tighten the distributor hold-down clamp.
7. Reconnect the vacuum hose to the distributor.
Step 4: Check the Timing
1. Start the engine and let it idle.
2. Turn on the timing light.
3. The timing mark should be steady at 36° before the timing mark on the harmonic balancer.
4. If the timing is not correct, repeat steps 2 and 3 until it is.
Once the timing is set, reconnect the negative battery cable and put the distributor cap back on.
