How to set timing?

[Castellina]

Hi, I have a 1957 Johnson 35 hp outboard engine that the only thing stopping it from running is the timing on it. It backfires, but thats it. Does anyone know how to set the timing?
Thanks

 

[racerone]

Have you switched the plug wires ??-----------Is the flywheel key good and not sheared.-------When the points are set at 0.020" then the timing is usually spot on and there is no further adjustment to do.---This is all based on some 40 + years of working on these motors.

 

[Castellina]

The key is good, how would I tell if I did have the plug wires switched?
I don't know it this makes any difference to timing, but i did have the whole mag plate off so that i could replace everything under the flywheel. I don't know it that could've screwed up timing or not.

 

[F_R]

The coil closest to the front (forward coil) goes to the top cylinder.

 

[Castellina]

ok that was the problem, I had the plug wires reversed. lol
thanks for your help guys