Timing the engine ensures the parts run in synch.
Chevrolet vehicles keep the engine working at peak efficiency by using a timing system to run the ignition and pistons in sync. This is accomplished by the use of a timing belt or chain, depending on the model of your Chevy. To time your engine, you will need to have access to the timing compartment. This is found on the front of your engine. The timing cover must be removed prior to starting this job.
Instructions
1. Check in your Chevy's Owner's Manual or Service Manual for the correct timing for your engine. Chevy trucks, cars and engines of different sizes will have different timing. Chevy also lists this information on a sticker on the underside of the hood for some models.
2. Locate the harmonic balancer. This is top of the two pulleys that the timing chain or timing belt goes around. Look for the numbers that are imprinted around the edge of the balancer. Using your specific Chevy model's manual as a guide, mark the number on the balancer that corresponds with your model.
3. Mark the end of the timing point with a piece of white chalk. This is a small piece of metal just above the harmonic balance. It will narrow above the balancer into a point downward.
4. Plug in the timing light. The red clip of the timing light is clipped to the positive battery terminal, and the black clip to the negative battery terminal. The third clip should be clipped to the No. 1 spark plug wire. In most models of Chevys, this is the front spark plug on the driver's side.
5. Loosen the bolt at the base of the distributor.
6. Make sure the wires of the timing light are not near any moving parts, and start the engine.
7. Aim the timing light at the chalk mark on the timing point and pull the trigger. The light on the timing light will begin to flash. The mark on the harmonic balancer needs to be line up with the one on the timing point when the timing light flashes on them for the engine to be in time.
8. Gently rotate the distributor either way by no more than one-quarter inch. Check the timing with the light again. If the marks are further from lining up, slowly rotate the distributor the other way. If they are closer but still do not line up, turn it gently again. Repeat this process until the marks are in line when the light flashes on them.
9. Hold the distributor in the new position and tighten the bolt. Check the timing again to ensure that the distributor did not move while it was being tightened. If the timing is off again, loosen the distributor again and repeat the adjustment and timing process.
10. Once the timing is correct and the distributor bolt is tightened, unplug the timing light wires.
Tips Warnings
Some Chevy models have a computer controlled timing system. Refer to your Owner's Manual to see if this applies to your model. Do not attempt to time a vehicle with this system.
Do not move the distributor large amounts at a time. This can cause the fuel to ignite when the piston is too close to the top of the cylinder and can cause damage to the piston. Refrain from touching engine parts while timing your vehicle. Many of the parts get very hot when the vehicle is in operation and could cause serious burns.
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