Timing lights are easy to use. the one I had for years finally crapped out. I picked up one from Harbor Frieght Item # 03343. Works just fine.
It does have light weight wires, so you have to be careful with it.
Hook the battery clamps to the battery, hook the spark plug wire clamp on the plug wire.
Remove the round alternator cover.
Start the bike, pull the trigger on the timing light, point the flashing light at the timing marks. You may want to do this in a dimly lit area. Like in the garage, door closed and just enough lights on so you can see what your doing.
The flashing light of the timing light only lights up when the plugs fire. This lights up the timing marks just when the plugs fire. The marks should be easily seen. If the marks don't line up where they should at idle, loosen the screws and turn the sensor plate till they do.
Now rev the engine to 3000-3200 rpms the rotor mark should move smoothly over to the left. Over to but never past the full advance mark. On your 80 there isn't a full advance mark as on the earlier bikes.
On the bottom of the round hole the cover sets in is a notch. The left edge of this notch is the full advance position.
If your timing light gives inconsistent flashes try turning the plug wire clamp over.
Leo
