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Hi all. I'm after some advice. I have a 1985 fxef. Engines been stripped and rebuilt. It was the 1340cc but is now 1500cc. I have a M5 morris magneto which is aligned with the small lobe opening the points just as the advance timing mark has centred in the timing mark hole of the engine. The top plug holes of the engine are sealed and it runs off a single plug in each combustion chamber. I have a pump feeding a dellorto dhla 40 that sits out just under the tank. Although I've knocked this up I'm still only a novice and the timing is really confusing me. How accurate must the dot be aligned with the centre of the timing inspection hole? And who came up with the idea of venturing a circle rather than a nice straight line? I think I'm advanced at the moment as while I'm trying to start it I get a nasty ping from the rear chamber which i assume to be detonation? It seemed to idle yesterday for about 3 mins but was slowing to almost stopping then revving high then dropping low then high... any advice on backing off a few degrees or pushing forward a few and what this might do would help? Anything that helps me understand the issue I'm facing? I assume (from what I'm reading) I need to rotate the engine a few degrees forwards so that the combustion happens a split second later while the piston is on a down stroke? Also while attempting to start it I often get a puff of smoke from the carb or exhaust manifold, again I feel this is related to the early combustion and the exhaust fumes escaping incorrectly? Again, advice welcome or is this something I need a rolling road to fix/ somebody experienced?
I was having trouble seeing the round advance timing mark on my 1340, I tried the rubber clear time , the clear plug, no luck. Searched the forms and found an old one from Kirby - v twin racing I think. His way is to jack bike up get timing mark centered in hole , open primary inspection make two marks one on rotor, one on back of primary , drain primary fluid, put Allen bolt back on timing hole. Start bike, use timing light on marks in primary. Work great , thanks Kirby. I don't know if this will help. Good luck
The dot is the front cylinder advance timing mark. At about 1400 rpm the dot should be centered in the inspection hole. That sets it to 35 degrees BTDC. Use a light and clear plug.
I used a basic actron timing light that I have had for years, maybe that's why i could not see my mark, but it worked fine threw the primary. I am no expert, this is the way I did it. I always say I am no gynecologist but I'll take a look!!!
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Timing troubles
