I'd like to check that the crankshaft locking tool as supplied in the tool kit (a65) puts the crank in the 34degree full advance position thus avoiding having to use a timing disc! Some articles ive read state that it gives TDC? Thanks for advice.
Dave.
Hi Dave,
The timing tool on an A65 will put the crank at a set position BTDC ideal for ignition timing.
There are some small exceptions to this in that models 65-68 have a tool that can be fitted either way up. One orientation gives 34° BTDC, rotated 180° gives 37° BTDC.
Post 68 bikes (so 69-on) have a screw in timing plug like the triumph and that will set the crank at 34° only.
34° is desired starting point for strobe timing, though the workshop manual states to set between 34° and 37° and adjust for optimal performance.
Using these timing tools sets a starting point and shouldn't be seen as any gospel figure. But will get you close enough for strobe timing and to be able to start the bike.
I have one of the tools mentioned that can be used either way up. It has a plate on the top stamped A50 one way up and A65 the other so that's the difference.
Good tool for getting thereabouts and then using the strobe to get it right.
Hi Editor, the early unit twins used it as you state (the A65 marking was for the 37°, however this was later revised and noted only to use in the A50 position).
Truth be told my A65 (and several others of mine) prefer to run at a more advanced setting than stock.
As was the case for another member recently, it's best to double check the crankshaft timing position corresponds to the correct piston position using a rod down the sparkplug hole: 34 deg BTDC should correspond to 7.8 mm BTDC for an A65.
Thanks for your information gentlemen, as always priceless. Always best to check i say!