125hp Force Timing Concern

[erosenwinkel]

I had my motor (1258x5a) timed at the marine service shop after my rebuild. I have adjusted the carbs, the throttle link, the goofy looking cam with the hook to stop at WOT. I have adjusted the idle screw, I have not touched anything up above the carbs. By messing around with the previous things, is there any possiblility that I can have the motor out of time. It seems to be running correctly, sounds good, accelerates without hesitation, smokes slightly at idle (not while cruising or faster), starts nicely, goes into gear without stalling (forward and reverse). I just want to make sure that by messing with the throttle and idle stuff down below that I didn't inadvertantly do something that messed up the timing (without me realizing it, I am a novice mechanic). My top speed is not much over 32, is that what I should expect?(18.5 ft open bow Bayliner Capri 1984) Compression is 140 on all four cylinders. I have new plugs, the flat electrode ones. I followed the link and sync sticky. Jets out to 1 1/4. Have not messed with fuel pump or diaphragm (should I?). Have not messed with carbs other than the jets. Dumped out sediment bowls, floats are free. Changed fuel lines (old ones were getting cracky). My earlier exhausts bellows issue was just what Frank said, it wasn't seated properly and I probaly was leaking exhaust into cowl area and sucking into carbs. Thanks for any advice anyone can give, I am new to this and don't want to scorch anything because of my inexperience.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: 125hp Force Timing Concern

Wide open throttle timing is set by the screw-link and plastic blocks adjusting the trigger position. Nothing except changing the screw setting will change that.

Changing the setting of the idle stop screw in addition to changing the opening of the carb butterflies will change timing at idle, but that is not important. It usually only amounts to a degree or so ranging from 2 degrees retarded to 2 degrees advanced.

Top speed is variable due to differences in hulls and loads carried. Props also make a difference. 32 MIGHT be right on or it MIGHT be a little low. With proper weight distribution, the correct prop and proper trim, I would be looking for around 36 but sometimes you just don't get what you want. My 21 footer with a 140 Chrysler is only giving me 33-34 and I was trying for 40--but, that's where she runs so I'll take it.