In a message dated 00-07-11 12:39:33 EDT, jsimmons@intrepid.net writes:
<< range of .014 to
.016 for the gap and for some reason I thought, "how odd, its a range and
not an exact number". So here is the question, and I'll increase the range
to .013 to .017 just for grins; What difference does it make to the running
of the car setting the point gap to .013 as compared to .017? >>
John,
Good reason to check out Dan Masters' Electrical Mtce Handbook...chapter 6,
page 23....it all has to do with "dwell" or "dwell angle" - how long the
points remain closed to allow a strong magnetic field to build up to supply a
strong spark. The suggested range of .014 to .016 assures that if you set
the point gap anywhere in between those 2 settings, the dwell will be optimum
for the highest spark voltage capable from your ignition system. Since the
rubbing block on the "moving" side of the point set wears down, it's a good
idea to set point gap on new points at the lowest setting (.014")....as the
rubbing block wears down the gap will increase within the allowable range.
Would you notice a difference if you set the points to .013 or .017....all
other things being equal, you probably would. Not only does dwell affect the
strength of the spark, it influences ignition timing. As the point gap
widens with wear, delivery of voltage to the plugs is delayed or retarded.....
Hope that helps - good luck.
chip
Chip Krout
'76 TR6 CF57822U (restoration underway)
'70 Spit Mk3 FDU78512L (basking in the sun!)
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