question about reeves method(full spark advance timing)

[jembar]

I set my full spark advanced timing by the Joe Reeves method and was wondering why the spark tester needed to be set at 7/16". After setting the timing I noticed the tester was at 5/16". Does this make a difference in the results? Any help would be appreciated.

 

[5150abf]

Re: question about reeves method(full spark advance timing)

It shouldn't if you did everything else right, the 7/16 is just to make sure you have a good spark, if you still question it just redo it with the correct setting.

That method works great by the way, Joe is the man.

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: question about reeves method(full spark advance timing)

That gap should be set to 7/16" to 1/2" which is what OMC originally recommended, they have their reasons of course. A small difference in the gap really wouldn't make a difference BUT a 1/8" difference might. What one is looking for is a strong wide blue lightning like spark jumping across that wide gap. A spark that would jump across a gap that was say 1/8" smaller but wouldn't jump the recommended gap would result in ignition problems when under actual running conditions.

The recommended gap does vary with different ignition systems as follows.

Standard magneto ignition = 1/4" gap

Battery Capacitance ignition = 3/8" gap

Magneto Capacitance ignition = 7/16" to 1/2" gap

 

[jembar]

Re: question about reeves method(full spark advance timing)

Thanks for the reply. spark on the tester was great, blue lightning. One more question though. I set the full spark advance with no problems but when I checked the timing at idle, without moptor running, same method except throttle at nuetral not WOT, I was getting 4 degrees. When you add the 4 degrees, I'm over by 4 degrees. Is this OK?

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: question about reeves method(full spark advance timing)

The idle timing can easily be set with the engine running. It's just not feasible to set the full spark advance timing while bouncing down the river at 30 mph or so. What engine are you speaking of?

 

[jembar]

Re: question about reeves method(full spark advance timing)

I have a 1992 evinrude 115 TLEND. Using the Reeves method, I set the Full Spark Advance @ 23 degrees(spec. is 28). While I had everthing set up, I moved the throttle back to nuetral position and timing was 3 degrees(spec is 4). Haven't checked idle when the motor was running since I set timing @ WOT. Is this OK?

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: question about reeves method(full spark advance timing)

That engine incorporates the Fast Start feature, that is the engine automatically and electronically advances the timing when starting, then drops the timing to normal when the engine reaches a certain heat degree.

In order to use the timing method I speak of, you need to disengage that feature first, otherwise the timing would be set too high which will result in damage. If you've disengaged that feature, fine, but if not, ask on the board how to do that as I'm not familiar with the circuitry on your engine.

 

[jembar]

Re: question about reeves method(full spark advance timing)

Thanks for the reply, Joe. I checked my manual and it says that only the V6 models have the fast/quick start function. I don't think my motor has it. I checked other posts about "Quickstart" and it seems the V4s don't have it. Just the V6s.

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: question about reeves method(full spark advance timing)

I'm sure that someone will jump in here with a verification one way or the other shortly.

 

[jembar]

Re: question about reeves method(full spark advance timing)

I have confirmed that my motor does not have fast start.

I have a 1992 evinrude 115 TLEND. Using the Reeves method, I set the Full Spark Advance @ 23 degrees(spec. is 28). While I had everthing set up, I moved the throttle back to nuetral position and timing was 3 degrees(spec is 4). Haven't checked idle when the motor was running since I set timing @ WOT. Is this OK?

 

[daselbee]

Re: question about reeves method(full spark advance timing)

Yes it is fine. When you get on the water, I recommend checking the WOT timing at 5k. Joe's method gets you real close, but for peace of mind, I always re-check when on the water.

Set your idle up for 700 to 750, in forward, and don't sweat the idle timing.
You do realize you are adjusting the idle speed by changing the timing, don't you?

Joe's method is only for WOT timing by the way. Not for trying to set the idle timing.

 

[jembar]

Re: question about reeves method(full spark advance timing)

Thanks for the reply, daselbee. Yes, I know the idle is set by changing the timing but thats just at idle, right? Once your off the adjustment screw I thought the timing is on the cam roller.

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: question about reeves method(full spark advance timing)

Idle timing, whatever degree the engine calls for........

Scribe mark on cam aligned with center of roller.
Adjust timing via adjustment between cam and vertical throttle arm.