Checking engine RPM's with a tachometer

[rodrigwa2005]

I got a Alpha One 3.0 LX, I/O, Mercruiser transom, '97 with power steering...preparing for the idle speed/mix settings.<br /><br />Question is, Which pulley/shaft should I point the tach to read the engine RPMS?

 

[DHPMARINE]

Re: Checking engine RPM's with a tachometer

This has to be said ...<br />point it at the crankshft pulley.<br /><br />DHP

 

[newport dave]

Re: Checking engine RPM's with a tachometer

Are you using a photo tach? if so, you will need to put a piece reflective tape on the crankshaft pulley/balancer and point the tach at that spot.<br /><br />Also, be aware that you may need to use a jumper wire to place the engine in "Base Timing Mode" to adjust timing.<br /><br />Dave<br /><br />

 

[rodrigwa2005]

Re: Checking engine RPM's with a tachometer

Dave:<br /><br />This is good input...As I prepared for gathering any necessary tools for doing this setting , I did not see any reference to the timing on the service manual...How do I determine if I need to performe the procedure you attached?<br /><br />Thanks.<br /><br />Waldo

 

[Don S]

Re: Checking engine RPM's with a tachometer

Unless the distributor has been moved, the timing shouldn't have changed. It is a good idea however to check the timing and the advance timing during tuneups just to make sure everything is fine.<br />If you look at step 8 in the page Dave shows, you will see it says the timing should be 12° at idle. If you use your timing light to veify the 12°, you will see that it bounces around quite a bit, but generally around the 12° area. That is why you use the shunt and a different setting when actually adjusting the distributor.