Timing an Atlas - distributor model

Hi Andy, I have one of these engines on the bench. Up to 1967 they had a Magneto, so has it a distributor, or the points unit with two sets of points?. You set the top points with a fag paper just pulling out at the correct advance. I have the original Norton manual in front of me.. The points back plate rotates to adjust on slots, and each set of points will adjust as well to get both cylinders right. Hope that helps, best regards, Paul

Andy, if you rotate the distributor body, the central shaft, the one the rotor button sits on, should stay stationary. The same as your Morry!.. OR, am I missing something.

Previously Paul Knapp wrote:

Andy, if you rotate the distributor body, the central shaft, the one the rotor button sits on, should stay stationary. The same as your Morry!.. OR, am I missing something.

If the Distributor chain is slack( and there is usually not enough adjustment) then the shaft will appear to turn with the body (we are only making small movements are we not!) ,so its best to wedge the adv retard on full advance and check the timing by turning the motor over in the direction it runs. Due to poor points cam machining i check the timing on both cylinders and stone the cam. The early Atlas was not fitted with a distributor but had a twin points unit in the same position. All the above still applies except its possible to make easier fine timing adjustments by setting the points with a bigger or smaller gap.You may have a distributor as they are a bit better made than the rubbish points unit and swaps were made.