Distributor timing arm question
 

On my 29 Fordor, I'm still having problems with the spark advance/retard. The lever is moving the rod coming out of the distributor all the way to the right when retarded and moves it to the left when advanced. There is no real change in the engine sound. Today, while the car was running, I disconnected the rod and moved the advance/retard plate manually. As I suspected-there was little or no change in engine sound. What is causing this? The car runs a little rough at lower speeds and seems to smooth out at higher speeds-35-40 mph. It feels like I should have a little more power at the high end. I've set the points & timed it. The advance/retard plate on the distributor had me stumped. Any thoughts and ideas would be appreciated. Thanks

Re: Distributor timing arm question
 

I sounds as if the ignition is advanced too far. Re-set the timing. Adjust the points first to .018-.022. Also check to see if you have a B-engine front timing cover installed. This will cause you timing to be advanced. A B-timing cover will have an oblong boss where the timing pin screws in.

Tom Endy

Re: Distributor timing arm question
 

Also make sure you do not have side play in the distributor shaft

Re: Distributor timing arm question
 

Check timing with timing light. You would have to mark the pulley for TDC and get a timing gauge. Suppliers sell the gauge for $10.

Re: Distributor timing arm question
 

I like this one that I got on eBay: