Timing Light

[zook77]

Sorry but this may sound obvious but is a timing light required for setting the timing on an '87 samurai or are the instructions in the FSM sufficient? I have read that if the engine is old, I think mine is the original engine so 22yrs, then using a timing light may actually make it run worse due to worn components so setting it by ear is a better idea. Any thoughts on this?

[Baratacus]

tuning the engine by ear isn't a good idea. What may sound good at idle isn't going to necessarily sound good under load. The timing marks that you set it by allow for the mechanical and vacuum advance of the distributor when accelerating and when at WOT. Use a timing light on it. There's a timing check port on the bell housing thats easier to hit than the mark on the front crank pully.

[zook77]

Thanks, that makes sense. I was just hoping I didn't have to buy a light but does sound like a better, safer option so thanks for the info!!

[Baratacus]

they only cost about 12 or 13 dollars for the cheap ones. I've had the same Cheap timing light for about 10 years.