I set the timing in my 1986 GL By ear, in a pinch. It ran great.
I forgot about it for 3 year. I don't feel this has done any
harm. As the matter of fact, It also ran much cooler! This may
effect the ability to idle properly.

               Eric
         1986 VW4x4 * 1972 240z * 1936 Chrysler
         NO wife No kids NO problems!

On Wed, 24 Sep 1997, Eric Small wrote:

> Hey ya'll, can someone help me on this?
>
> I have done a complete tune up on my '86 GL. I found it difficult though to
> determine the degree of timing advance using the methods described in my VW
> mech's manual and here by list members. Using a timing light and adjusting the
> pulley notch to what appears to 5degrees advanced of the block seem (2k RPM,
> temp sensor disconnected) the van runs terrible. No power. with it advanced to
> what appears to be 40-45 degrees advanced the van runs incredibly strong and
> cool with no audible knock. In fact at this setting it is well short of where I
> begin to hear knock under load.
>
> Facts:
> 1. Van has 166K miles on it.
> 2. I have been running 92CLC fuel just to insure against knock.
> 3. My temp gauge indicates 1/8 inch below the diode after warm up(ie. 40min.
> Dallas, TX commute in freeway traffic at 100F). My understanding is that running
> hot is one of the danger signs of advanced timing settings. Is this true?
>
> Questions:
> 1. Can a knock be un-audible?
> 2. What damage could be occurring when all seems fine.
>
> I wish to have my baby run fast *and* long!
>
> relative nubie, please advise of any offenses :)
> Eric Small
> Dallas, TX
> '86 GL
> '93 Audi 100
>