What should a Ford 460 timing be set at?

Setting the Timing for a Ford 460
When setting the timing for a Ford 460 engine, it’s important to consider the specific characteristics of the engine and the components being used. Here are some insights based on the search results:
Initial Timing:
– The initial timing for a Ford 460 engine is typically recommended to be set between 10-14 degrees BTDC (Before Top Dead Center) as a starting point.
Total Timing:
– Total timing for a Ford 460 engine can vary based on factors such as fuel type, engine modifications, and specific components. It’s suggested that total timing should be around 34-36 degrees by 3000 RPM for stock iron 460 heads (D3 or equivalent).
Considerations for Adjusting Timing:
– It’s important to consider the specific characteristics of the engine, such as elevation, cam specs, and fuel type, when determining the optimal total timing. For example, timing should be increased as elevation increases, and specific cam specifications can influence the ideal timing settings.
Component Considerations:
– The type of distributor and ignition system being used can also impact the timing settings. For instance, the presence of a Mallory distributor may require specific considerations for setting the timing.
Adjustment Process:
– When adjusting the timing, it’s recommended to start with a conservative setup and then test different settings to find the optimal timing for the specific engine and components being used.
Based on the information from the search results, the initial timing for a Ford 460 engine is typically set between 10-14 degrees BTDC, and the total timing should be around 34-36 degrees by 3000 RPM for stock iron 460 heads. However, it’s important to consider specific engine characteristics, such as elevation, cam specs, and fuel type, when determining the optimal timing settings. Additionally, the type of distributor and ignition system being used can also impact the timing settings.
Always ensure that the timing adjustments are made in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications and any specific recommendations for the components being used.

How do I know if my engine timing is correct?

Your engine’s performance should be as smooth as a ballroom dance, but if you notice it stumbling, stuttering, or emitting an irregular rhythm, it might be a telltale sign of timing trouble. Misfires are like the misplaced steps of a dancer, disrupting the fluidity of your engine’s performance.

Which way do I turn my Ford distributor to advance timing?

When we want to turn the timing. Back. So here we go we’re going to do this with the engine. Running.

How do I know if my timing is wrong?

Signs of a Bad Timing Chain
Misfiring, poor idle, and rough running could mean the chain has jumped a tooth and the timing is off. Replacement is urgent, because the chain could break at any point, and the engine could be damaged from incorrect valve timing.

What is the normal timing advance at idle?

between 5-20 degrees
Most engines have between 5-20 degrees of ignition advance at idle. This is referred to as initial timing. What’s the difference between mechanical and centrifugal advance? As an engine revs up, we need to allow even more of a head start for the spark plug in order for complete combustion to occur.

What is the ideal ignition timing at idle?

So the ideal time for the spark plug to fire is that which completes the burn at that point of the piston movement. At idle, that’s roughly 6–8 degrees before TDC. On my old car, a bit of advanced timing has helped boost the engine power but at high idle/rpm.

How do I set advance timing?

To adjust your timing, all you need to do is turn the distributor housing one direction or the other, depending on whether or not you want to advance or move back the timing. If the rotor turns clockwise, you’ll advance the timing by rotating the distributor counterclockwise, and vice versa.

What is the timing for a Ford 460?

As you rev the motor up and the distributer goes to full advance, you want around 32-35 total timing. You should have full advance buy 2500-3000 rpms.

What should engine timing be set at?

around 36 degrees
Total timing requirements are dependent upon many variables. A typical street engine with a compression ratio of 9.0:1 runs very well with around 36 degrees of timing (initial plus mechanical) for a rough total of 15-55 degrees of timing at light throttle when vacuum advance is employed.

What is the optimum ignition advance?

Most stock street engines call for 6 to 8 degrees of initial advance, but this is not set in stone. Engines with longer duration camshafts and other modifications often demand more initial timing. It’s not unusual to input 14 to perhaps 18 degrees of initial timing for engines with big cams.

What should my ignition timing advance be at idle?

This is the amount of advance at idle with the spark triggered Before Top Dead Center (BTDC). Most stock street engines call for 6 to 8 degrees of initial advance, but this is not set in stone. Engines with longer duration camshafts and other modifications often demand more initial timing.