Topic: Static Timing 78 750K

[cjackel]

It's time for some scheduled maitenance on my 78. It only has
10000 original miles and I've never adjusted my points or timing.
The bike has run great and I get about 60 mpg, so I don't expect
any complications.

Do I need to remove the spark plugs to perform the static timing?

I'm using the procedure in the Owner's Manual (I have the original copy).
Based on the owner's manual, I do not need to turn on the ignition or remove the plugs,
but according to the article posted in the tech library (Cycle World, October 1976)
the spark plugs are removed to make the engine easier to turn, and the plugs
are reconnected to "avert" possible damage from the high voltage coils when
turning on the ignition.

Basically, I want to adjust my points and statically time the engine before I
disassemble for the valve adjustment and carb synch.

Thanks in advance.

[eldar]

removing the spark plugs will make turning the engine much easier.
the cycle world is correct.
You should adjust your cam chain before doing the timing though.

[Clyde]

I use an old indicator to act as a timing light. It has two wires (one side is normally earthed so you will need to connect a wire to the base) with alligator clips attached.
One clip is connected to the live side of the points and the other to the frame or engine for an earth. Switch the ignition on (and the kill switch). As you turn the engine over the light will come on as the points open and this is when ignition occurs. This should coincide with the F mark
Set the gap first to .012"-0.014" and then adjust the plate to get the light to come on at the right time. All points have  adjustable gaps but some dual points have only one individual adjustable points plate. In this case you adjust the non adjustable points by turning the main points dish/plate first and then adjust the second one with the individual adjustment plate.
Always (on a 750) turn the crank clockwise, when you are checking the timing.

Remove the spark plugs for safety- as you can actually start the engine when you are setting the timing-not good if you have a wrench attached to the crank. It is also much easier to turn over especially at top dead centre TDC.
Adjusting the cam chain tension will not have any affect on the ignition timing (as it is driven of the crank), but should be done before carb tuning.

[Quail "Owner of the comfortable k8"]

It only has
10000 original miles

and I've never adjusted my points or timing.
The bike has run great and I get about 60 mpg, so I don't expect
any complications.


I would get on my knees and kiss my k8 if it got 60mpg!  I thing I have learned "expect the unexpected".  10k miles, man that would be cool.  My bike only has 35k but the last owner rode her hard.  Good to see yet another K8 come to this forum.

[dusterdude]

with 10k,i woulndt mess with it.

[Quail "Owner of the comfortable k8"]

I agree.  What could you gain?  I would check the valve lash and leave perfection alone. 

[jdpas29]

if he's getting 60 mpg, i'll have what he's having!!!