The very best performance from an engine can only be obtained if the ignition timing is correctly set. Over-advanced ignition will make the engine difficult to start and will refuse to run evenly at low speeds. In extreme cases, pre-ignition may occur which will rapidly destroy the piston crown(s). Retarded ignition can result in overheating, sluggish performance, poor fuel consumption and starting may become more difficult.

This magneto static timing light uses a custom designed electronic circuit and an LED indicator to show exactly when the points are starting to open. This makes setting the ignition timing an easy, precise operation.  This magneto static timing light, This magneto static timing light comes ready to use and will work on all types of magneto and battery/coil ignition circuits too. It is powered by 3 AA batteries which are included with the initial purchase and are easily replaceable when necessary.

Got some questions?

Why can’t a simple battery and bulb be used to do the same job?

In a magneto ignition circuit the points, condenser and primary winding of the magneto armature are all in parallel. Current in a circuit will always flow via the easiest path. This will be through the points if they are closed, or through the primary winding if they are open. Either way, the bulb will stay on whether the points are open or not! Try it and see!

Yes, the battery and bulb method can be used on a coil ignition system provided the wire from the points to the HT coil is disconnected first – use this magneto static timing light instead and leave the wiring alone!

Why can’t I use a piece of cigarette paper between the points?

Well, you can – but you need an extra hand to tell when the paper has come loose and will never be as accurate as this magneto static timing light. The LED will be on when the points are open and will be off when they are closed – it’s as simple as that!

How do I use it?

Instructions are included with every unit - they are reproduced here to answer the question

  • Remove the points cover from the magneto, clean and adjust the points gap
  • Connect the two croc clips to each side of the points and switch on the timing light
  • Rotate the engine to get the piston in the correct position for setting the ignition timing. This may be achieved by lining up timing marks, using a timing disc or measuring the distance before tdc – refer to the manual for your particular engine
  • Set the magneto on full advance. Advance and retard control could be manually operated which in turn could be by ‘tight’ or ‘slack’ wire control, or it could be automatic, in which case bob weights may need to be pulled out - refer to the manual for your particular engine
  • Slowly rotate the magneto armature shaft until the red LED lights up. This is the precise point at which the points start to open
  • The engine and magneto are now both in the correct position and need to be locked together. This could be by pressing the magneto pinion or sprocket onto a taper, inserting an intermediate gear or tightening a clamp screw – again, refer to the manual for your particular engine
  • Switch off the timing light and remove the croc clips. Remember to switch off in order to conserve the batteries – the circuit in the timing light still consumes power even if the LED is off
  • Replace the points cover

    • It really is as simple as that!

    Please note that we send out the units with a small piece of tape over the on/off switch to ensure that the unit is not accidently switched on during transit - it will flatten the batteries if left switched on for long periods of time. Although originally intended to be workshop tool, it may be advisable to replace the tape if it is carried in the vehicle's tool kit. 

     More questions? Please ask and I'll do my best to answer.

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    These are brand new units, designed and manufactured in the UK. Guaranteed for 12 months from date of purchase.

    Overseas buyers are very welcome. Once wrapped up in a bubble bag and then put in a jiffy bag, the static timing light is still light enough to post overseas for not a great deal more than it costs within the UK. For this reason we are pleased to offer the timing light to overseas customers for the same £38 cost. This means that when we say 'free P&P' it means just that - free to everyone wherever they are located.  I like to keep things simple if I can.....

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    Yes, we repair and overhaul all types of magnetos and dynamos too - see our website for full details

    www.themagnetoguys.co.uk

     Any questions - please ask

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    Trade with confidence - we intend to please! 

     Thanks for looking!