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DiscoWeb Bulletin Board » Message Archives » 2003 Archives - Discovery Technical » Archive through May 02, 2003 » How do you set timing for a 3.9L engine? « Previous Next »

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Rob Davison (Nosivad_bor)
Senior Member
Username: Nosivad_bor

Post Number: 270
Registered: 02-2003
Posted on Monday, April 28, 2003 - 11:30 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

first off this is for a 1990 Range Rover 3.9L but i figure i'll get more traffic here.

looking for a procedure for setting the timing of the distributor. I assume this is a standard procedure for
most all cars but I've never done it myself or even seen it done.

specifically, where is the timing mark in my 3.9l Range Rover engine? a description of the area would be
nice as i do not know the technical name of most of the components in the engine.

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is this where it would be at on a 1990 RR?

again, i don't know how or what to do but i reckon i can handle it if i can just get some step by step
directions.

yes i have a timing light.

much obliged
-rob
 

Paul T. Schram (Paulschram)
Senior Member
Username: Paulschram

Post Number: 1354
Registered: 02-2002
Posted on Monday, April 28, 2003 - 01:39 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Rob:
In most cases, setting ignition timing involves disconnecting and plugging the vacuum advance line and using the light to determine the timing and turning the distributor to achieve the desired timing.

The pointer on your engine is on the front cover to coincide with the marks on the front pulley/harmonic dampener. It can be something of a bear to see the marks, especially on a Rover, but essentially, you want to stand in front of and to the drivers side of the vehicle and aim down to the front pulley/harmonic dampener. The marks are on the pulley with just a pointer on the front cover. The harmonic dampener should be scribed with a number of degrees of crankshaft rotation so you can pick where you wish to set the timing. Most Rover engines call for 6' BTDC +/-2'. Usually, if you're in the ballpark you're good to go. I try to smear some tire crayon or some such to increase the contrast on the pulley so I can see the marks.

The biggest problem is access to the bolt that holds the distributor down. I use a couple of different wrenches and I've found the distributor wrenches aren't a lot of help, given the close quarters. A stubby 9/16" works well.

Peace,
Paul

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