Folks my 420g 4.2 on triple carbs occasionally turns over locks up momentarily then fires into life. Im told its a timing issue that can be rectified by moving the distributor? Is this the case and how is it done? I have posted in mk10 /420g section but its quiet over there and seeing as its essentially an inflated xj im hoping someone here has an answer. Cheers jjd.

 

Yes, if the base timing is too far advanced it can cause what you describe. Try retarding the timing a bit.

There's a clamp device that holds the distributor body stationary. Loosed the clamp and turn the distributor body anti-clockwise just a smidgen...maybe 1/8". Tighten clamp.

See if the symptom is reduced.

Retard the timing a bit more if needed. You can go back and forth to find the sweet spot....as you don't want to retard the timing more than needed. Doing so can reduce engine power and increases fuel use.

Ideally a timing light would be used to first check the original setting....so you can go back to that setting if needed. Lacking that you can make a reference mark of some sort on the distributor body

If no improvement consider the possibility that the starter is getting weak....as a very similar symptom can occur.



Cheers
DD

 

Has anyone moved any of the spark plug leads? Mine did the same thing and I discovered the PO had reversed the leads on the cap, as if the firing order were front to back. Lucky I didn't do any damage continuing to attempt starting it.

 

Cheers doug ill give that a try. The leads are in the correct position and she runs well when started. I see a circular clamp at the base of the distributor so ill mark up and try a bit of rotation. The starter is a refurbished unit so it should be ok.

 

You can also loosen the clamp, hold it in place(premarked somehow), have someone else start it, and gently turn it as it is running to find your sweet spot..Hold it there, have them turn it off and retighten the clamp.
That should save back and forth trips and keep that dirty grease off your keys and steering wheel.