289 ignition timing The other engines in the 90-degree V-8 series are the 302 and Jun 14, 2023 · So I’m trying to find the best timing for my 289. Right now it is at 6 degrees btdc which is what ford called for on a stock 2bbl 289. from many years ago, a big thank you to "cindys_sn95" who taught me this. Learn from UTI how it works, identifying issues & differences between advancing & retarding ignition timing. Feb 21, 2010 · Hi guys, Car: Mustang '66 with a 302. Instructions for Ignition Timing in a Ford 289 Ford's 289-cubic-inch V-8 is the second engine in the 90-degree V-8 series of engines, which began with the 221-cubic-inch V-8 in 1962. The proper firing order ensures that the spark plugs ignite the air-fuel mixture in the correct sequence, preventing misfires and maintaining the engine’s optimal performance. But the engine was running better at 11 on the balancer and lumpy at 6. Mar 10, 2007 · Example, my timing comes in at 2300 rpms, to the full 33 degrees that my engine wants. I also use a standard replacement 65-68 3 bolt balancer. Because the high-revving 289 Hi-Po does its best work at high RPM, total timing is completely in by 5,000 rpm, with peak horsepower and torque at 6,000 rpm. Anything less than 14 degrees and the car runs like crap and I was getting very hard hot starts. I am having trouble figuring out which marks on the timing chain cover I need to use to set the timing correctly. 060 over flat top pistons, Melling HV oil pump, I pulled the engine out and crapped stock heads Mar 29, 2011 · I have got a freshly rebuilt 289, 9. Jan 1, 2023 · Ignition timing is typically split into three types. timing set at 8* btdc, at operating temp, shut it off and it does the womp. But the heads I have are swirled inlets and efficient combustion chambers. Engine starts easy and idles and runs nice and smooth. Go for a road test and see if it spark knocks. 017 (#) 6B 6B 5 625 550 (!) 8—-390 265 BF-32 0. 034 27 0. While the engine is running, slowly advance the timing until you get the highest vacuum reading then back off the timing 1in of vacuum on the gage. Now, I’m not sure but I don’t think I have a 289HP. The 289 High Performance distributor is not fitted with a vacuum advance of any kind. 1st Ford and 1st classic car. Currently measuring Jul 2, 2024 · A sneak peek into the Ford 289 firing order with diagrams, offering insights into maximizing power and ensuring smooth engine operation. 1966 to 1977 Ford Bronco Tune‐Up Specifications 23DEC2015 Explore a detailed diagram of Ford 289 engine parts, providing clear insights into the components and their functions for maintenance and repair purposes. How much initial and total timing are you guys finding works best on your 289? Here is what I have: rebuilt (was rebuilt before I bought the car), . The 4v 289 with Holley 4160 cranks and idles reliably, and now I’m trying to fine tune the timing to help her purr. Spark timing should be 12 degrees BTDC at idle. 6 roller rockers and required valve springs. I have 2 questions right now. Jul 28, 2013 · They ignition is an MSD 6AL digital, and, knowing that dial-back lights have issues with multi-spark MSD ignitions, I'm using a normal/basic inductive timing light (Actron CP7527 from Autozone). Ive leveraged the wealth of knowledge on this site to refresh my grandfather’s 1965 Mustang GT (many thanks). Adjusting timing and mixture on your classic carb 66 Mustang 1966 Mustang Coupe - Day 54 - Part 2 MustangMedic 158K subscribers Subscribe Super easy to do, and you will thank yourself for doing it this way when you go to hit the key for the first time! Mar 19, 2003 · Antique Cars Classics Customs Hotrods Leadsleds Roadsters Streetrods Trucks Turbine Car 40 31 Ford 67 Dodge Charger 61 Chrysler Images Specs Pictures Photos Jun 7, 2016 · Also connect your timing light. Jun 19, 2018 · One book says the timing should be set at 6 degrees, another says 9 degrees, and a video I watched says 10 degrees. 017 (#) 6B 1965 Ford Mustang Distributor Information & Specs 1965 Mustang Distributor General information Ford used 3 kinds of distributors on 1966; the Loadomatic, a Dual Advance and a Centrifugal. Per all your advice. Understand the sequence of spark plug firing for optimal engine function. The original cam called for 6 degrees of initial timing. Oct 1, 2016 · Need help understanding timing specs Let me start by saying that I am not good at engine tuning. End shaft play with the distributor Aug 10, 2020 · Hi Team, Long time lurker, first time poster. I'm wondering whether with the mild cam and 4 bbl it should be set to a different Loosen distributor hold-down bolt and adjust timing by twisting distributor until timing marks line up between groove on pulley and indicator. 2nd question -- with a Pertronix installed, is the recommendation different from stock Jun 27, 2025 · Ignition timing with a mild cam will change little from stock. I'm trying to figure out what to set my ignition timing to. I have May 24, 2010 · Hi i need some help i have a 65 with a 289 and i am wanting to put the motor back together as it was dissasembled when i got it. 034 29 (#) 0. Jul 26, 2011 · Now that I have my rebuilt 1967 289 running, and since the engine is no longer stock, I wanted to know if the timing should be set differently now? The stock setting was 6 deg BTDC at 600 rpm. Whatever you put in there Aug 9, 2002 · I just got a pertronix ignitor. Ford increased the stroke of the 260 to 3 inches to make the 289 in 1964. I actually tried three different stock distributors with the same results. Car ran beutifully before but now seems a little rough. Dec 18, 2016 · My 289 is a 66 But I have an early (pre65) timing cover/water pump (aluminium) With the cast on pointer like you have shown. 021 6B 6B 5 700 550 8—-302 230 BF-32 0. I do not have the range of going down , but the car runs at 15 + . Set the stops on the distributor so that you cannot exceed a total timing of 36°, especially if you have hypereutectic pistons - the tops have been known to come off, fracturing around the top land. Cancel anytime. Double roller timing chain set to no advance or retard. womp. I have a mid-65 old school 289 with a Holley 600/1850 vacuum secondaries, hydraulic lifters, street cam, Edelbrock F4B and headers Dec 13, 2024 · Ignition timing affects your engine’s performance. The 221 was followed by the 260 in 1963. Aug 12, 2023 · The timing pointer would usually be on the driver side for most of the 1967 289s with the exception of maybe the K code and Shelbys but I'm not sure about those. I have in nearly 29 years never had any problem with this. 027 6B 12B 4 ½ 700 550 (!) 8—-289 225 BF-42 0. Details are: -. Question #1. Apparently, the 302 didn't use all the stuff from the original 289 like you thought. since my Tiger has been in a a professional workshop for classic cars they discovered that the static ignition timing was 2 degrees I've been wanting to reposition the distributor on my stock 289, especially since the recent hard fuel line upgrade is riding too close to the distributor. Can someone please tell me the correct timing for my car. I can't get timing to hold - it jumps around Apr 8, 2020 · Welcome to AFM, 65mustangrookie! There are always a lot of posts about this one! You always want to start by figuring out if your timing mark matches the pointer, and that ensures that the ring on your damper hasn't slipped either. This firing order diagram is particularly important for engines that use a distributor for ignition timing, such as the Ford 289 engine. Looks like the previous owner drew a hash mark on the cover with white chalk (see arrow in picture). 30 over mild (unknown) cam headers Mallory unilite distributor and coil 4-spd stock 4100 carb I currently have initial timing at 10* with total timing at 36*. Maybe this thread will help here is the timming and point gap set idle speed all in one place to do a tune up on your classic mustang May 15, 2008 · Valve timing will change if your timing chain is way over stretched, but not ignition timing. 1 I6 timing marks and firing order Fig. Early Mustang Tuneup and TimingMustang Tuneup and Timing General Tuneup Specs Chart 1 - 64 to 69 Chart 2 - 69 to 71 Chart 3 - 72 to 73 and footnotes Setting Mustang engine timing Locate the timing marks and pointer on the lower engine pulley and engine front cover. I think it has more to do with the timing though. I put it in exactly per the instructions, real easy, took 5 minutes. My timing cover is 1 o'clock pointer. If it starts easily, bump up 2* more, heat soak, restart. The first is initial timing—that is, the amount of spark lead that is set using a timing light (aimed at the harmonic balancer) with the I fought an engine something terrible to get it timed before I learned this. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. 030 over, edelbrock e-street heads, comp 256H cam, 1. Instructions say a walkthrough of how to install a distributor and set timing on any distributor engine. The unit allows you to program timing curve using an app. Oct 19, 2011 · I have a 1967 289 v2 and I can not find the timing ignition marks. This video covers: 5. Jun 3, 2010 · Not sure why my 289 has an issue with trying to lower the base timing to 10-12 degrees. The problem. I'm currently running 38* mechanical timing with an additional 12* of vacuum advance when cruising. It seems to run much better than the 4300 it had. Then back off 2*. May 20, 2024 · Hello all couple questions. Is that mark accurate to set timing with? Its a stock 289 minus the timing cover apparently. Fig. It is slightly modified, i. Flat top pistons, 10:1 compression Edelbrock 2122 Jul 8, 2011 · If I understand correctly, to advance the timing, I would loosen the bolt under the distributor, then rotate the cap counter-clockwise (I don't have a timing light, but was able to get my old 289 running pretty well by ear- on the 200, the cap doesn't seem to be adjustable like it was on the V8). Sep 13, 2010 · Vacuum advance means you can have your mechanical ignition timing set nice and low, but still idle smoothly, get crisp throttle response, and good gas mileage. So I Advanced it until Aug 28, 2024 · In my 1964 MK I TIger is installed a 289 engine with Lumenition electronic ignition system. So, you start out by pulling your #1 spark plug, and either use a piston stop (which screws into the hole) or, I like using a small dowel. Yes, if you never adjusted the timing from day one, the ignition timing will change as the valve timing does, as the camshaft drives the distributor. Any suggestions on this would be great Jul 23, 2017 · I've had some threads that dance around the subject of timing (replacing timing chain, not getting vacuum from my carb at idle). Keep doing this until the engine either drags the starter or coughs through the carb. This is different the the later model 302HO and 351W motors. 2 V8 timing marks and firing order Clean the timing marks and pointer. Same goes for your timing chain. HP Type Gap Dwell Gap (in) Man Trans Auto Trans pressure Man trans Auto trans 6—-200 120 BF-82 0. On the vehicle there is only one The 1965 Ford 289 small-block engine was equipped with a single timing chain that connected the crankshaft to the camshaft to ensure that the two components rotated in unison. very fast advance. Some sources say 6 degrees, come say 10 degrees, some say 10-12 degrees. No cable box or long-term contract required. Jun 27, 2021 · Say you have a stock 289 block, cylinder heads, intake, and auto lite 4100, with the comp cams nostalgia plus cam solid flat tappet cam, what would be the initial timing and total timing you would expect? My engine seems to like 26 initial and 40 total. RPM measured with a DMM though there's Upgrade your 289 or 302 V8's performance with the MSD 85793 Black Pro-Billet Distributor - precise ignition timing and a compact design for tight engine bays. Here Is The Tool List w/ Associated Links! (on Amazon) - - Quality & Affordable Timing Light: https://go Jan 25, 2010 · I finally broke in my new 347 stroker a few weeks ago and it runs and sounds great! I do have a question about the timing. . Aug 31, 2011 · Hi all, I have a 1966 coupe with a 289 2v. Jan 19, 2018 · Ignition timing basics for carbureted engines that specifies initial, mechanical, and vacuum advance concepts intended to improve performance and efficiency Jan 12, 2005 · Most sbf engines when set up correctly like more ignition timing than sbc's. It will also show how to line up the number 1 cylinder with the rotor pointing to number 1 spark plug and timing marks on TDC Jun 30, 2007 · Re: Ignition timing by Roger King » Tue Jan 05, 2016 9:01 pm Hmmm I'd say 10-12° initial advance is probably a good starting point for a 289. (All ignition and fuel system parts are stock) Live TV from 100+ channels. A tight system will keep timing accurate and not jittering to higher and lower timing than what you set it for. 0 Premium Coupe Silver Reply Quote Like Sort by Oldest first F funnelcake 15 posts · Joined 2010 #2 ·Mar 20, 2011 Jul 21, 2025 · I have a mild cam 289 with a Mallory unilite. Started it up and ran fine, didn't drive it just idled in the driveway. Here is what I have: Originally an A code engine. Since i did some 1968 Mustang Tune-up Specifications Engine Spark Plugs Points IGN Timing Fuel Idle speed Cyl – Cu. Trying to get things dialed in while my kids are here for summer. 25 inch dual exhaust, 3. I doubled checked today and showed 14 initial and 47 total! Aug 12, 2019 · Hopefully someone can help Complete rebuild on the motor about 3 years ago but not run until now. After a bit of research I'm even more confused as it appears that some 289's have the timing pointer at the 11:00 We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. They should be on the harmonic balancer, correct? It should have TDC with -6 and +6 on Aug 25, 2007 · Hi folks, I am new to the forums. 7:1 compression, Air Gap intake, 650 Holly, full roller, MSD 6AL w/ billet distributor. womp thing when I try to restart it, like timing is too advanced. To set points on the 66 289, first locate the distributor and remove the cap. 040 bore, slightly over stock cam, Edelbrock intake and carb. 55 rear gears, Arning/Shelby drop, T5 conversion, 17" torque thrust "M" wheels The engine is a C code 289 from 1966 with the factory Iron heads but with a 31-670-4 part # cam from comp cams with 1. in. I just installed a rebuilt 4100 on the 65 289 four barrel A code. 6 roller rockers, shelby intake, holley 600 4 bbl, pertronix ignition, tri-y ceramic headers, 2. Everything is new, fresh rebuilt 259 engine, Dave T-bow rebuilt WCFB and Mallory distributor, new wires, plugs, etc. Apr 17, 2011 · Although you should set the timing without the vacuum advance I have never owned a 289 (all were stock) that had any vacuum advance at idle. My vac reading off manifold is only about 11-12 which is really the Apr 11, 2009 · I see a lot of posts about what the timing should be on a 1965 289 4bl carb, the engine has been bored . I was running 14 degrees of initial timing and what I thought was 38 total timing. Am I correct that this is only to make sure Sep 17, 2021 · I went to double check my timing just for giggles and noticed the pointer is missing. I've got #1 cylinder at TDC (compression) and a 11 o'clock position on cap. I am having problems setting timing and getting good power from my 1967 289. wherev Mar 20, 2011 · Hey, What would you guys suggest for timing for pertronix 3, on a 66' 289 with 3speed auto, 4v edelbrock carb, and nerw exhaust? Thabks SOLD 1966 Mustang Convertible Red 289 2001 SVT Cobra Coupe Red 2012 Mustang 5. So i Specs: Engine: SBF 289/302 Warranty: Limited 1 Year Warranty Features: Easily convert to a Coil-Per-Plug ignition system Preprogrammed timing maps Fully Programmable 2D and 3D Timing maps provide complete timing control Individual Cylinder Timing (ICT) allows precise tuning Built-in 2. , mild cam, edelbrock intake manifold, 350 4 barrel Holley. 1965-75 Ford & Mercury engine tune-up specifications including timing, dwell angle, and spark plug gap, and firing order. The problem i have is i dont know how to put the timing on. Ck to see where the timing is with your timing light. As this is a high duration cam, wandering if 6 is correct ? I know 6 is for stock applications. com On my mild 289 it was worth more then 30HP compared to the factory settings. I currently have it set at 12 degrees before TDC but have seen a number of differing views ranging from 4 degrees to 20 degrees before TDC. For the final tuning I took it to a classic car restoration place and they did a fantastic job getting it tuned. There were several variations of this motor. 025 and the dwell at idle speed was 37-42 degrees. I am trying to help a buddy out who has a stock 1966 Mustang 289. When setting breaker point gap be sure to check ignition timing after making the adjustment. 8, 390, 428, and other engine Nov 28, 2005 · Engines with a cam like more initial ignition timing, however, if the dist has not been reworked to reduce the stock mechanical advance it is too easy to exceed the total advance for the engine, Ford recommends no more that 38 degrees total advance (initial + mechanical) it might be 5,000 rpms before you reach that. Locate the timing marks on the harmonic balancer and the timing tab on the timing cover. Would Jan 15, 2012 · 1965 GT Fastback, 289 . Here's where I start getting to the actual timing itself (timing chain replaced and vacuum solved by using brake port). If it does, back it off 2* and drive it again. Ford 289 Engine In 1964 the Ford engineers increased the displacement of the 260 block to 289 cid creating the infamous Ford 289. 30 over and has a rumble cam as well I see 6 degree, 12 degree BTDC this is all new to me so I’m learning as I go. I did a little work on the distributor point, also replaced dist. If that is the case for you then disconnecting it will have no effect up timing at idle. This info taken from "Glenn's Ford Lincoln/Mercury: Tune-Up and Repair Guide, 1955-1970" Available at Oct 14, 2017 · I rebuilt my 289, . 5 bar Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor for boosted applications Optional temperature sensor input to May 26, 2009 · I got a 302 / lunati voodoo cam 351 firing order / unilite distributor. Out of this block came the 289 high performance engine made famous on the streets and in Shelby’s Cobras and 1965-67 Shelby Mustangs. 65 Mustang with a 289, Holley 2 bbl carb, distributor has petronix, other that that it is basically stock. This Video shows the basics of using a timing light. It says that my 67, 289-2V with the thermactor emissions gear should be set to 0 degrees initial as opposed to the 6 degrees initial without thermactor emissions gear. Dwell is 33*. Ford's 289-cubic-inch V-8 is the second engine in the 90-degree V-8 series of engines, which began with the 221-cubic-inch V-8 in 1962. My question is what do I set initial timing for the new cam? Is there a formula other than throwing it on a dyno and For a Ford 289 engine, ignition timing is typically set around 10-12 degrees before top dead center (BTDC). Verified TDC = 0* on the balancer. 1946-64 Studebaker engine tune-up specifications including timing, dwell angle, and Spark Plug Gap, and firing order. However, just twisting the distributor changes all curves and timing, pooching the areas that were good. But. They suggested switching to pertronix ignition but I didn’t have the extra $400 (points Dec 12, 2009 · Initial ignition timing should be set at around 6 degrees BTDC for a manual, 12 degrees for an automatic. Possibly a small increase in curb idle timing, in order to recover low-rpm torque, where the new cam reduces dynamic compression. I'm back. Jun 6, 2011 · I have a 67 mustang with a 289 4 bbl, mild cam, msd 6a system. Is this reasonable? The spark plugs are To set timing on a 1966 Mustang 289, first locate the timing marks on the harmonic balancer and timing tab. Engine idle speed should be 575-600 for a manual, 500-525 (in "drive") for an auto. 66 289 users often face difficulty with incorrect ignition timing and uneven engine idling. When I put the engine back together and start the process of finding the best timng point, where should I start for street driving at a 5200' altitude? Are there any web sites that deal with this?. This engine is not totally stock, it is a 289 with FiTech Go Apr 26, 2014 · I have a '65 Mustang with a slightly modded 289. Loosen the points screw and adjust the gap using a feeler gauge to the manufacturer’s specification. Oct 27, 2011 · Does anybody know the timing specs for a 1967 289 V8 2 barrel engine with no A/C and an automatic transmission. 034 38 0. One of the most essential tools for setting and checking engine timing is a timing light. You should be able to set the timing on Mar 20, 2025 · I just bought a Progression Ignition programmable distributor. This video will show you how to set the engine timing on a Ford V8. Any feedback would be appreciated ? thanks Feb 18, 2003 · I've heard several different opinions about the "correct" timing for my 289 here in Colorado. May 4, 2017 · hey folks, I have a 66 289 and it just got on the road 2 weeks ago after a 4-year makeover. I also may be expecting more than my 259 can deliver. My question is when I check the timing it was set at 12° before tdc but my total Advance was only 20°. contact spacing was 0. 170 and 200 cubic inch inline six cylinders all had a breaker arm spring tension of 17-21 ounces. After a bit of searching, I found the timing mark pointer hidden under the water pump I assume that is not how it left the factory. Ignition system is stock (single points). Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, knowing how to use a timing light can help ensure your engine is running smoothly and efficiently. Ive reset timing multiple times with same result, so I figured starter Here is a large firing order for the old school Ford 260, 289 and 302. The older mallory distributors are well known for the shakey timing, and randomness of it's total timing. Use a timing light to align the mark with the specified degree on the scale while the engine runs at idle. To set the timing on Ford small block and Ford big block engines is simple if you follow these steps. Having problems timing this thing. 2) If your carb is getting so hot that the gasoline boils in the bowls from heat soak, that will pour gas out the vent tubes and flood your engine on hot starts. Sorry I don't have pictures. Tighten distributor hold-down bolt and re-check timing. Pertronix ignition upgrade. I was able to drop initial timing down to 6 as Jul 31, 2003 · Can someone give me some general information about setting the timing on my car? I have borrowed a timing light, and I don't know what RPM it should be when in park, or in drive, or how much advance it should have, or, better yet, what page in my Chiltons can I find this info on, because I can't What’s thee Ideal timing range for a 65 289 4 barrel w/ Holley 650 and rv cam. It also allows for vacuum advance. Everything i have read refers to changing the timing chain but the cam and crank arent aligned. 1967 289 engines with varying factory accessories (with and without power steering, smog pump): Jul 5, 2025 · I have 2 questions -- what is the factory spec ignition timing on a 66 with a 289? I have seen conflicting information. Every engine wants a different total timing. Use a timing light connected to the number one spark plug wire. 0, 5. Aug 5, 2009 · If your distributor parts are sloppy, so will your ignition timing. Aug 24, 2024 · Proper engine timing is crucial for optimal vehicle performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions control. Also, don't forget you turn the distributor counterclockwise to advance timing on a six. Again, keep Oct 1, 2009 · To find what your engine likes for initial ignition timing get the engine up to temperature, increase initial timing 2*, shut down and allow to heat soak for a minute then restart. cap and condenser. I am using the MSD Pro Billet Distributor, Blaster 2 coil and 6AL box. Mark the proper Feb 5, 2024 · '66 289 with Holley Street Warrior 600CFM, Edelbrock Intake, MSD Electronic Ignition, Patriot Tri-Y Ceramic Headers, MagnaFlow Exhaust, SSBC Power Disc Brakes, American Racing Torqthrust II, Performance Automatic Super Streeter C4, TCI Street Rodder Torque Converter, 8" Differential with 3. e. 289 HP (Shelby version) pretty much stock everything except a mild roller cam and hydraulic lifters. I followed the instructions in an article on www. Re-connect vacuum line to distributor. Apr 14, 2004 · I recently recurved the advance on my 289 ignition as well. Also I replaced the gaskets on my carburetor again, seems to be working good now (no leaks). I had changed two of the distributors to the 10L setting. Set the timing light to 0 degree's, and set timing to 6. Here is my problem and what I need help with. David –=≡ If it was easy, everyone would do it ≡=– Save Share Reply Quote Like D danielf Discussion starter 138 posts Jan 2, 2010 · Hi I was reading my shop manual the other day and found the timing section. 1965-75 Ford & Mercury full size engine tune-up specifications. When I start the motor Jul 17, 2013 · Hello fellow classic mustang owners. May 17, 2022 · The numbers in that table are a compilation of centrifugal and vacuum timing all piled together, so they look 'big' compared to what most people are talking about when they discuss ignition timing. Rotate the engine to top dead center (TDC) on the compression stroke. Mileage went from an average of 15 to 18mpg as well. Aug 29, 2021 · Just trying to fine tune the timing today and in the manual it says 6 for a 289 or 12 for 289HP on thé balancer. 😎. Learn about the firing order diagram for the 289 engine and how it affects its performance. Mar 7, 2021 · I've read a number of things to try to figure out the correct timing for my 1966 Mustang 289. I want to correctly set the initial timing, total timing and timing curve for this motor. Spark advance comes via a centrifugal-advance mechanism that advances spark as RPM increases. 55 gears Beechkid and Grimbrand Reply 1946-64 Ford & Mercury engine tune-up specifications including timing, dwell angle, and spark plug gap, and firing order. fordmuscle. jldpue dbwqeja nlv lyjbmk ffk evwysj qncb taic qxfk ihte qun ufwuqrg roo grf nww