Date:         Mon, 18 Jun 2001 11:01:47 -0400
Reply-To:     Jay L Snyder <Jay.L.Snyder@USA.DUPONT.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Jay L Snyder <Jay.L.Snyder@USA.DUPONT.COM>
Subject:      Advanced Timing Causing Starting Problems
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I had the timing advanced on my '85 1.9l digijet to 5 BTDC (10 degrees
advanced from stock) and experienced some starting problems on my trip this
past week.    I noticed slightly lower oil pressure readings on the way
down which tells me the oil was running hotter.  I did not notice a higher
reading on the coolant temperature gauge.  The engine had more power than
last years' assault on the Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park,
pulling 3rd gear where it would not last year.  It would not start for me
once I got to the campground, hot or cold.  I retarded the timing a few
degrees (just guessing by hand) and it  seemed to crank faster and started.
It started every time after that in hot, warm and cold situations.  Could
be altitude related--the drive and campground is probably at 2500 ft.
Changes since last year include:  5 BTDC initial timing,  AFM leaner by 8
notches, new plugs, cap, rotor and wires.  Mileage was 22+ mpg for the 440
miles round trip, about 2 mpg better than last year.
The plan is to see where the timing is set right now and make a decision
based on that.  Maybe TDC is a good compromise?
Saw one other Westy from Canada and a '90 EV camper at the Big Meadows
campground.

                                                   Jay '85 Westy
(Hindenburg)