Topic: Why can't I see the timing marks with my strobe light??

[lowbrowcustoms]

I mentioned this in another post with another problem of no firing on #4, that was fuel related, but this is still confusing me. I statically timed my '74 cb750K4, it has a new dyna-s ignition. I got it spot on for 1-4 and 2-3 to the F mark, but I didn't have the auto advance extended. How can you manually extend the auto advance with the dyna-s plate on there? I can't see how you could get your fingers back there, and didn't want to try with a screw driver, anyone have any tips?

Anyway, the bike starts up the second you hit the starter or at the first 1/3 of a kick, it fires right up and seems to be running strong. I used my timing light (run in a series, plugs into the plug and into the plug wire) on plug 1 and shined the strobe at the ignition plate. I don't see any timing marks, it is just a blur, the light isn't helping. Why would this be, the timing has to be pretty close, I would think I would at least see the marks off to one side if it was off a bit. Anyone have any insight on this? The result is the same at idle or a few thousand revs.

Thanks
Tyler

[Gordon]

I'm at a loss on the timing light issue, but to manually advance the advance mechanism, just grab the timing rotor with your fingers and turn it.

[drackett_19]

i had trouble seeing the marks with my strobe light too. there was a certain angle i had to look to see them. not sure why though.

[olds-cool]

try rubbing the timing marks with a piece of white chalk and see if it helps them to stand out

[lordmoonpie]

What sort of timing light is it - is it an induction type that clips to the actual HT lead? Has it got options to set advance/retard etc?

I found with modern strobes that had lots of features to set advance/retard and ignition curves, it was almost impossible to get consistent readings on timing up an old honda. Had to search for a timing light that was just a timing light - no frills, and it works every time.

Even had my mate try with his super duper timing light from the local Audi dealership and that wouldn't do it either. It could be just the light itself...

[joeb]

Did you bring the rpms up to 3,00 rpm when  you were checking with your strobe light.