First time setting the timing - scared

ejnogaski · Jan 4, 2011

Hey all,

I'm looking for some guidance. I'm going to be installing the Pamco Electronic Ignition into my '79 xs650. I understand how to install it and everything, but I'm worried about getting the timing correct. I've heard/read if the timings off, it could do damage to the engine. Any and all information is greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

Punkskalar · Jan 4, 2011

Pull the alternator cover, use a timing light and adjust. Its easy man... You do have a timing light right?

ejnogaski · Jan 4, 2011

I do know it requires a timing light. I don't have one but was hoping to buy one or borrow one from a friend.

5twins · Jan 4, 2011

Yes, you'll need it to accurately set the Pamco up. Once set, they usually don't change much although it's not a bad idea to recheck it in a few hundred miles or couple months time. Sometimes a minor adjustment might be called for. You might just want to borrow one now and then again in a few months for the recheck.

CDNTX650 · Jan 4, 2011

Honestly a great tool to have if you have an old bike, even with the pamco.

uknowme2goog · Jan 4, 2011

anyone have an extra timing light for sale...? mp me...

lotek66 · Jan 4, 2011

harbor freight about 13 dollars

pamcopete · Jan 5, 2011

ejnogoski,

Here is a picture of a recommended starting position of the PAMCO plate. This will get the engine started so you can then use the timing light to set it more accurately.

littlebill31 · Jan 5, 2011

Question, I have a TCI and plan to get a Pamco. The little black box of doom scares me. Anyway, do you turn the plate to adjust timing? By loosening the philips head screws? And can you do this while the bike is running?
Thanks

pamcopete · Jan 5, 2011

littlebill31,

Yes, you turn the plate clockwise to advance the timing and counterclockwise to retard the timing, at idle, with the engine running. It's best to let the engine warm up first to stabilize the idle speed, but also place a fan in front of the engine.

Also, there is no little black box of doom associated with the PAMCO. You can remove the TCI box of tricks and sell it on Ebay if it is still working. Might get enough to pay for the PAMCO!

littlebill31 · Jan 5, 2011

Thanks Pete!
My TCI works great. Only 9800 miles on it, but I want a Pamco. I'm going to the permanent magnet soon. I hear only great things about the Pamco, but I've heard some bad things and mishaps with the TCI.
Thanks again.

First time setting the timing - scared

ejnogaski

XS650 Member

Punkskalar

Hugh's HandBuilt

ejnogaski

XS650 Member

5twins

XS650 Guru

CDNTX650

XS650 Guru

uknowme2goog

XS650,1980, Bobber

lotek66

XS650 Member

pamcopete

Ride.Enjoy.Life is Simple

littlebill31

Smells of Raw Fuel

pamcopete

Ride.Enjoy.Life is Simple

littlebill31

Smells of Raw Fuel

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