Date:         Fri, 11 Nov 2005 21:35:33 -0800
Reply-To:     John Bange <jbange@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         John Bange <jbange@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Tuning/Timing
In-Reply-To:  <43750841.1040307@charter.net>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1

> Just changed plugs, rotor, distributor cap. Engine has moderate spark
> knock/detonation when under load like climbing a hill, accelerating
> hard (if there is such a thing in a Vanagon). Timing issues I'm sure,
> but if any one has any tips about how best to tackle this
> detonation-under-load issue, or tips and tricks on setting the timing, I
> would appreciate hearing from you.


If you have pre-detonation, yeah, first thing to do is make sure the timing
is set properly. Bentley is a little confusing on the issue, as it assumes
you have an electronic device (VW1367) telling you the RPM and timing
setting. Really, though, it's easier than it sounds
:
-FIRST!: Get a 10mm socket and loosen the collar on the distributor.
once the engine's running, you don't wanna be fiddling with a wrench
under the belt when it's running!

-Then, turn the crank pulley till you find the V shaped notch on the
inner edge. I have a 30mm socket and crappy 1/2" ratchet that fits
the crank pulley bolt I keep just for that purpose, but an adjustable
wrench on the alternator pulley nut usually works. Steal some nail
polish from your wife or mother or sister or some liquid paper from
work and mark that V notch so you can see it under the timing light.

-hook up your timing light

-warm up engine to 80degC (temp needle about centered on LED. I
actually wait until the cooling fan kicks on and off once, as this
assures that the whole engine is up to temperature.

-unplug the blue Temp II connector from the SIDE of the thermostat
housing. It's sometimes a pain to yank it loose and you can only
really reach it with one hand.

-wedge a screwdriver blade in where the throttle stop screw is to
keep the RPMs up to 2000-2500. It may require some fiddling to
keep it in that range as you adjust the timing.

-point the timing light at the crank pulley. nudge the distributor a
little at a time till the V notch (5 degrees BTDC) lines up with the
seam between the engine case halves.

-shut off engine, tighten down distributor collar, reconnect Temp II
connector, and clean up.

--
John Bange
'90 Vanagon - "Geldsauger"