How many people on a tune up on a car with a distributor check the timing. I'm asking because my Dad says I'm doing a half a$$ job if I don't check the timing. I have never herd of this before doing a basic tune up.

In the old-style ignition systems with mechanical points it would be mandatory. Virtually anything you touch in the distributor will affect timing.

With more modern ignition systems I would usually consider checking the timing to be optional ... but why not? It doesn't take much time, and then you know for sure that the timing is correct. Many sad stories begin with the words "I just assumed ...."

[This message has been edited by Marvin McInnis (edited 05-18-2006).]

On old points engines, as stated above, the timing needed to be checked and adjusted quite often. The wearing of the points would need them to be readjusted, and so on. But with a modern electronic ignition or a full scale DIS, the timing can't really go drifting off. Can't hurt to check it from time to time though.

quote Originally posted by Marvin McInnis: Many sad stories begin with the words "I just assumed ...."

but those are always the best stories

quote Originally posted by Wht&BluGT: but those are always the best stories

I always thought the BEST stories started with "This one time.. at band camp..."