can i check yhe timing without a timing light if yes coulld somone explain my haynes manuel says use timing light it doesnt state any other way thanks mike 1976 xlh

 

Hi. What year is your bike? Does it have electronic ignition or points? If electronic ignition which one?

 

76 xlh points

 

You need to use a timing light. Others may tell you that you can 'static time it' but I would suggest you ignore that adivce.

The spark timing advances or retards as the engine speed changes, and that is the main reason you time it with a light and the engine running at 2000rpm.
Get the mark in the center of the hole, or at least within the hole and that will be close enough...... pg

 

ok ill get a light as soon as i get this starting problem fixed thanks pinion

 

Also get yourself a plastic plug to screw into the hole. J&P Cycles sells them for a couple of bucks. It is hard to see the mark in the hole, and darn near impossible with crankcase pressure blowing oil into your face as you try to see the mark!
pg

 

ok thanks was going to ask about that oh i posted a new thread on my starting issue along with some vidio footage maybe you can take a look and see what you think thanks mike