Slant six timing, loose distributor

Hello Fabo people,

I have what I believe is a 76 or newer Supersix engine in my 1971 Swinger. I went to time it one day last year and discovered after I loosened the distributor that the bolt on the bottom of the distributor was not tight. Which kind of explained why I would have ample power then kind of doggy at some points. Anyway I think I need to start over on timing this thing. I don't have a Factory Service manual for a supersix car so I am hoping you guys can set me straight.

Where should I set or tighten the bottom bolt? In the middle of the adjustment plate area? Then align the Distributor with number 1, and try to start it and time it?

I have had a slant before but the bolt on the bottom was never loose.

Thanks and sorry if I am not describing this clearly.

Mike

Good place to start. Getting to that bolt sucks to say the least with the distrib installed.

You need that arm put into a position where you can hit the correct timing.Sometimes it's in the middle sometimes not. If the threads are shot in the dist body you can use a heli coil to replace the threads or it's time for another distributor.

I played with mine and it is touchy. Start in the middle and see if you can set the timing about 8-10 BTDC with a timing light. If it pings, you can back off a little.