Okay so I have a 1969 Olds F85 with the 350 rocket. I saved it from some kids who stripped it down to turn it into a demolition car. Got it to start up and it idles high. I was going to hook up the timing gun up but I was looking trying to find the timing window and there's no tape on my harmonic balancer... How do I figure out the timing?

 

There should be a timing tab bolted to the front right side of the block, then a groove across the outer part of the harmonic balancer.

Picture from a recent thread:
https://classicoldsmobile.com/forums...g-pointer.html






Turn the distributor until the groove lines up with the 10º mark, which you can see in this picture:

https://classicoldsmobile.com/forums...eshooting.html

 

The groove is hard to see when its dirty and covered in crud. Clean the slot then run a yellow crayon over it and fill it with crayon so its a solid yellow line. Then clean the area leaving just the line. Make sure you set your dwell first then do your timing.

 

Thank you both for the replies I will look tonight!

 

Looks like my timing tab is busted off but I found the grove cut on the balancer. Now can I order any timing tab for the 350 or does it have to be specific for the olds 350?

 

It needs to be for an olds engine.

 

Thanks a lot already love this site haha

 

If you have a dial back to zero timing light, you don't need timing tape or more than the factory timing marks.

If you want true, accurate readings, once you get the timing tab on, you should check the mark with the engine at true top dead center. (OE balancers have a tendency where the outer ring slips)


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