Help Needed: Idle and Timing on VW Engine

[87_442]

Hello! I'm working on setting the timing on this engine. When I bought the trike, I suspected the idle speed was too high, so I found a dwell tach and timing light and checked it. The pulley has the one dot for TDC and the notch for 7.5 deg before TDC. When I checked the idle, it was at 1400 rpm, and the timing mark was after TDC.

Moved the distributor, which is an EMPI 009 electronic (no vacuum advance), to the 7.5 mark at the split in the case (or very close to that). That dropped the idle down to around 1000 RPM. I think this might have an aftermarket cam, because it has a nice lope to it now. I have some videos to upload, but I don't know how to upload them here. If you can show me how to upload it, it would be greatly appreciated.

What I'm trying to figure out is whether I should go any lower on the idle, or adjust the timing more. I have not done the check at 30 deg at 3000 rpm yet, as I am not sure where the pulley should be marked. I may get a different pulley sometime, with the marks on it, but just trying to get it streetable for now.

Thanks,

JIm

 

[FLSTC 1993]

Set timing to TDC with pulley.(where case halves meet)
Remove distributor cap, use 10mm socket to loosen nut to be able to turn distributor. Get 12v test light and connect to coil,touch points with light and turn distributor till it lights.
Static timing of engine.

 

[FLSTC 1993]

I forgot, make sure rotor is pointing to # 1 cylinder.(small notch on round edge of distributor.)

 

[87_442]

Thanks for your reply. How much difference will there be between setting timing at TDC vs. 7.5 BTDC?

 

[FLSTC 1993]

Check throttle response when blipping the throttle. Listen for smooth response. Adjust between TDC and a little advancement by sound of engine

 

[87_442]

Used the static method, set it at 0 deg. Checked it tonight with light and tach, idling now between 850-900 rpm, timing is on 0. No hesitation in the throttle, but did do some adjustments on the spring, to make it tighter. Much more consistent coming back to same RPM each time.

How do I post a video here? Would like to show how it runs now.

 

[Gorilla]

When you post look at the top of the area you see a bunch of symbols. Look most to the right end see the one that looks like a picture over another offset picture, That is your media insert icon. go to your saved video and select. Good Luck

 

[87_442]

See if this works.



If it does, I can post more tomorrow.

 

[87_442]

Ok, looked like that worked. Here's another one, with more detail.



A little hard to hear what I'm saying, but it is a bit loud, which is good! At least they should hear me coming!

 

[Papa Zook]

Sounds good Jim. Loving the videos, keep them coming.

Papa

 

[Gorilla]

Yes you did good. The 1k idle is not a big deal with the VW. The fact that it does NOT stumble as you come off idle is perfect. GOOD JOB

 

[87_442]

Thank you. I took it for a spin out in the field today, and it ran much better. Idled well, without feeling like it was going to run away from me. Throttle response was good, feels like it has plenty of power. Won't know til I get it on the road, which should be in a week or so. Got some new 16" ape hangers ordered, and a replacement speedometer. The ape hangers should put it where it is comfortable to turn. Got a helmet coming too..have to have one with permit here, but not required after you get license in Indiana. Will keep you posted.