I don't get the point(s)!

[plallenuk]

Hello, after reading the really useful guide in the tech tips section on setting up the points, I'm still a little confused... This has left me wondering which out of the timing or myself is the more retarded!

My query is; exactly which bit is it that I need to move to advance or retard the timing as shown in the diagram? I understand the basic principle of what the points do, but have no understanding of how the mechanism functions.

Any advice greatly appreciated,
Phil

 

[Cornish4]

Hello Phil, there is a clamp at the base of the distributer, use an 11mm spanner to undo the hold-down bolt then slowly turn the dizzy clockwise to retard and anticlockwise to advance the ignition. It might be an idea to get a friendly mechanic with a strobe-light to set up the timing for you, that way you should get it spot-on. Undo the bolt so that there is still a bit of resistance to moving the dizzy, as it only needs to be moved a small amount to alter the timing. Regards Brian.

 

[plallenuk]

Thanks Brian!

 

[Cornish4]

Glad to be of help Phil. You might consider in the future replacing the Femsa dizzy with a Ducellier one, the points are on top and much easier to set, and it can also be converted to electronic ignition so doing away with the points altogether. Brian.

 

[plallenuk]

I was mulling over electronic ignition... My friend said his triumph has never missed a beat since he installed it.
Would you be able to suggest which/where to buy?
Thanks

 

[Cornish4]

Your friend is right, our 4 always starts first time and does I'm sure run better. If you can get hold of a Ducellier distributer as fitted to 1108cc Renault 5s and I believe some 4s, then you will need to buy a kit from Aldon, www.aldonauto.co.uk and the part number you need is EP 141. It comes with full instructions and is easy to fit. I think it cost about £80, but is money well spent. Don't be tempted to buy a cheaper version, I've heard they can give trouble. Aldon are one of the best, and much used in classic car circles.

 

[plallenuk]

Thanks again, I'll add that to my list!

 

[barnfind]

As Steve Hennesey says in a parallel post on starting problems, have a look at the Boyer Bransden setup, as well.

http://boyerbransden.com/

This uses a small electronic module and retains your points, which with this system, last pretty much forever. It offers most of the advantages of the more exotic systems which require you to insert a trigger mechanism in your distributor as a substitute for the points, with the added plus of being reversible, in that if the module fails, you can swap a few connections at the roadside and be on your way again in a few minutes. That is something which you can't usually do with one of the more advanced units if something packs up.

Another plus is that it only costs around £35.00.

 

[plallenuk]

Smashing, ta!

 

[iMacThere4iAm]

If you are thinking of replacing your distributor, I've heard great things about the 123 Ignition electronic distributors - these are brand-new distributors with the electronics built-in.

 

[Azazello]

If you are thinking of replacing your distributor, I've heard great things about the 123 Ignition electronic distributors - these are brand-new distributors with the electronics built-in.

They sound like the best option, but aren't cheap at all...