Topic: Installing new points - using a dwell meter.

[grumpy]

I'm replacing my points plate.
I just scored a free dwell meter and I want to try it out.
I'm guessing I still need to get my points gap at least close using the static method before I use the dwell meter - at least close enough for it to run.

So what's the correct order of operations?
I figure:

Set points (static, so it'll run)
set timing (gun)
dwell
recheck timing

Sound right?

[dave500]

dwell is the gap more or less,dwell first,timing second,any time you change the dwell or gap,youve changed the timing,if the plate rides nice and square in the recess timing wont affect gap,if the plate has some up and down or looseness in its housing you can use a small piece or shim under one screw and between the housing and plate to square it up.

[bollingball]

Get your first set of points dead nuts on for the bike you are working on with a wire gauge. Then use the dwell meter to match the second set to  the first set. just like syncing the carbs. The goal is to get the first set correct with the wire gauge and match the other set to the first set.

                                          Ken

[TwoTired]

Dwell is the combination of gap and points cam profile.  The cam profile is tailored to a specified gap. 
It determines the time power is applied and stored in the ignition coils.  This becomes critical at very high RPMs only where there is less real time available to store energy in the coils.

You can have perfect dwell/gap and wrong timing, fyi.  However, if you change point gap, timing is also changed.

You can easily chase your tail during the process if the points plate has any lateral slop where it fits into the case.  If the plate moves laterally, it changes both timing AND gap/dwell.  And, while the engine is running, the point springs will push the loosened plate all over the place in rhythm with the point cam lobe position.

If your dwell meter doesn't have a 2 stoke setting, it is unlikely calibrated for the SOHC4's wasted spark operation, as actual dwell is in the 190 Degree area.

Cheers,

[eldar]

Some meters will allow you to use the 4 or 8 cylinder reading for a system like ours. My sears dwell meter does this.
I find that I use my meter more for an accurate tach than dwell. When I did have points, I would set both sets for timing and gap, then hook them up and fine tune dwell and timing. It worked really well but for the most part was probably unnecessary.
 

[grumpy]

Well, this one has options for 4, 6, and 8 cyl.
Not sure about 2 or 4 stroke though. I would assume just 4.

I don't actually have it in my hands yet. I have pick it up later in the week. Then we'll know...

[dave500]

too bad you didnt score a free electronic ignition instead.