1961 Model 50 Ignition Timing

15/32" btdc fully advanced. If you are using a timing disc, 38 degrees.

The Norton manual that I have (Illustrated Workshop Instruction Manual) for All models 1959-1967 says for the Model 50:

Before top Dead Center - Fully Advanced:

38 Degree or 11/32

The previously mentioned 15/32 is for the ES2

Mike

Well, my 1962 Maintenance Manual & Instruction Book, Norton publication P106, states 15/32" for the Model 50, 17/32" for the ES2, both 38 degrees btdc fully advanced.

Is this another example of a period manual c#ck-up? It has been known.....!

My manual also covers the twins, and I know the figures for those are correct.

Ian

I have been out to the garage and checked my copy of the 1959-1967 Illustrated Workshop Manual, and it states the same as the 1962 version, Mod.50 15/32" btdc, ES2 17/32" btdc.

Ian

38 degrees seems to be a constant figure so here is what I did some time ago:

With the primary chaincase off I found top dead center on the firing stroke and then painted a fine white line on the alternator and rotor. Then I bought a cheap plastis degree wheel and using a Dremel tool cut a fine slit in it at 38 deg. Holding it up to the alternator I then painted a fine white line through the slit onto the alternator body.

Now when I want to precisely time the bike I use a timing light. It is fun to watch the timing move forward and back as the revs change.

The Manual I have is numbered P106/P

Was there a change in the ignition timing at some point?

Mike

I agree that timing by degrees is a more accurate method than measuring down the plug-hole. Accurately finding tdc is vital, of course.

My other manual is also P106/P, Michael. I hate to say it, but did you have your glasses on when you read it?! When I first looked, as the type is very small, I thought it read 11/32", but on close examination i.e. when I put my glasses on, it does clearly read 15/32" for the Model 50 and 17/32" for the ES2, without a shadow of a doubt.

Ian

Previously michael_sullivan wrote:

The Norton manual that I have (Illustrated Workshop Instruction Manual) for All models 1959-1967 says for the Model 50:

Before top Dead Center - Fully Advanced:

38 Degree or 11/32

The previously mentioned 15/32 is for the ES2

Mike

As above my friend that's what mine is and I have no problems except from the odd wet sump. I made a clip on device that goes across the points. It beeps when shut, the minute they start to open the beep stops. I suppose a clip on electric meter on continuity would suffice better than struggling. I also made a slider that fits onto a DTI. Itscrews into the plug hole and that way I can easily set my before TDC setting spot on....remember about the backlash and get the right stroke...easy to get 180 deg out. All helps when your getting older!