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tubman · 10-26-2021, 05:05 PM

If the engine is totally stock, disconnect and plug the vacuum line to the distributor. Then start the engine and let it settle into a steady idle. Connect the timing light, and make sure the "bump" on the front pulley and the pointer on the timing cover line up. It may help to put some white or silver paint on the pointer and "bump" to make them easier to see.

The fact that you say you have "51 EAB" flathead concerns me, as '51 Fords were "8BA" models. This suggests that you engine may not be stock, which may make things different. Also, this will set initial timing only, and will not give any indication if the advance is working properly. I situations such as this, an "Advance" timing light is invaluable to check out the proper advance characteristics for the engine.

10-26-2021, 05:05 PM	#2
tubman Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2013 Location: Minnesota, Florida Keys Posts: 10,320	Re: timing a 51 EAB flathead If the engine is totally stock, disconnect and plug the vacuum line to the distributor. Then start the engine and let it settle into a steady idle. Connect the timing light, and make sure the "bump" on the front pulley and the pointer on the timing cover line up. It may help to put some white or silver paint on the pointer and "bump" to make them easier to see. The fact that you say you have "51 EAB" flathead concerns me, as '51 Fords were "8BA" models. This suggests that you engine may not be stock, which may make things different. Also, this will set initial timing only, and will not give any indication if the advance is working properly. I situations such as this, an "Advance" timing light is invaluable to check out the proper advance characteristics for the engine.