Strobe Timing

[Rusty's Uncle]

Once you fit electronic ignition you can only check/adjust the ignition timing by "feel" or by using a strobe timing light. By "feel" I mean running the engine on tickover and getting the engine running as smooth as possible by turning the distributor to a position that it runs sweet. This method is fine but not accurate and relies on all other engine functions being OK. I like to use a strobe timing light but why did the Fiat designers make it so bloody hard to get a good view of the timing marks on the 126. I always use a bit of tipex correction fluid to highlight the timing marks but it is almost impossible to get a view straight onto the marks . I think I just got it sorted by being a bit of a contorsionist and using a small mirror along with the strobe to get a decent setting 

[GTMaster]

Yes, marking it with a bright coloured pen (yellow or white) helps a lot. Luckily on my pulley someone had previously marked the inside of the pulley (a small straight slit is visible) close to the cover so that made aligning the marks easier.

[grubscrew]

Hi there. yes using a strobe light is quite an interesting process and getting it flashing just right at 2000 rmp or is it at 3000 i forget  , whilst turning the distributor,if you have one, but yes tippex is the only way to go.

[ciaoflyer]

Yes tipex, I use it on the Bis but I think it is easier to see than the aircooled.

[Allan]

There is supplied by Fiat, a special timing tool plate which fits onto two of the bolt heads that hold the timing cover to the block. This is marked at 0, 10 and 28 degrees. They make life real easy. I have loaned mine to the care taker of my now departed 126 otherwise I would take a photo of it and send it.
Allan

[DEYAN IYI]

Optimal solution

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/AccuSpark-SP8000-Ignition-Timing-Lamp-Digital-rev-counter-advance-control-/190623720662?pt=UK_Diagnostic_Tools_Equipment&hash=item2c620f24d6

[Rusty's Uncle]

Hi Allan , I think that you posted a picture of that bit a while back but I can't help thinking that the timing marks were a bit of an afterthought by Fiat. 
Deyan I just bought the P8000 (non digital) strobe from AccuSpark , I thought I deserved an update on my 35+ year old strobe and I do have to say that the clip-on pick up and brighter light is an improvement. But I guess that these guys are buying these things from China and making big bucks on them. I was somewhat dissapointed as the "translated" instructions are utter gibberish and AccuSpark can't be naffed to do a proper translation 
If you are buying from AccuSpark on eBay , wether it be electronic ignition or whatever , plan ahead and put the item on your watch list as they have a rolling programme of special offers so you can buy when the price is good 

[Allan]

Do you have Optilux or similar in the UK?