Ok, trying to start this beast for three days, got spark, fuel, and air, points gapped at 18 plugs look clean, check timing, but when setting with line in sight hole and the lobe is pretty far from the points starting to open, is this an indication of worn cam chains? Or am i missing something?
It has popped a couple times through exhaust so went to check timing and seems far off. Mike

 

You need to "advance" the flyweights.

 

I did that and the cam is still off. Started with cam plate centered in slots and advanced the cam (flyweights) all the way and pulled cam towards points and still a little off.

 

Not sure how to respond but I did notice you are new to Shovelheads. Shovelheads do not have "cam" chains. Have you got a book to reference?

 

Ive got the 1977 flh service manual but didnt find anything about timing.
Watched a sportster video and read a couple forums thats about it.

 

Check your email (mjpeterson777@gmail.com)
I sent you a page form the 1970-78 FL/FX HD Service Manual

 

Could have other problems as the SU piston was froze up in the cap, got that fixed, I see fuel squirt up when pushing the tickler. Ive got spark at the plugs, points look good, went to check timing and thats where i see a problem.

 

Got your email thanks. I understand the instructions, just not correlating to the bike. Will double and triple check.

 

IIRC the way I used to set the timing was to get the mark for the front cylinder in the hole. Then I would hold the centrifugal weighs in the advanced position by twisting the points cam. I would then adjust the breaker plate so that the ignition triggered (sparked) just as the weights came to full advance. I haven't done this in since 1998 and my bike and a Dyna electronic ignition with dual pickups fro 2 coils.

 

I didn't mean to "ignore" you, we lost power just as I was getting back to you. Make sure with the SU that you are tickling the hell out of it, or just dump fuel directly into the throat until you are sure you have everything right. I used to use about 30 squirts when the bike was cold.

Also make sure there is NO oil in the dome but that the moving parts are well lubed with WD40. If someone put oil in the dome you will NEVER get it started, it's not an MG or Jag.........LOL