When you pull the trigger of the timing light (with the engine running), each time the Number 1 plug fires, the timing light flashes a beam of light. The strobing timing light freezes the motion of the pulley and allows you to see how many degrees before or after TDC the spark is firing.

How do timing lights work?

Take your timing light and aim it at the timing marks, pressing the button on the light. Because you have the light hooked up to your spark plug means that it has current passing through it every time your spark plug fires, making the light go off and on, creating the strobe effect.

What happens if the timing is off in an engine?

If the timing is off, damage can occur. In some engines, called “interference engines,” the consequences can be especially bad. You could end up having to have your engine rebuilt, or even replaced. If your cam timing is off, chances are youll know because your car will not be running well, if its running at all.

How do you set the timing on a distributor without timing light?

to set your base timing without a light, you just turn the motor over in its normal direction of rotation until the mark lines up with where you want it.. loosen up the distributor and hook up a spare spark plug to the #1 plug wire.. turn the distributor until it sparks.. tighten down the distributor..

How do I know if my engine timing is off?

What are the symptoms of a bad timing?Engine Has A Ticking Noise: A series of pulleys attach the engine timing belt the engines camshaft and crank, allowing the crankshaft to power the connecting rods that are attached to pistons. Engine Wont Start: If the engine timing belt has broken, it wont be able to start.More items •26 Jun 2020