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1980 and newer GM engines are computer controlled which essentially eliminates the need for adjusting the timing. In the event that the distributor has been moved and needs to be reset, consult a Haynes or Chilton's manual to confirm two things:
1. What the timing should be set at (I believe that the Chevy 305 is to be set at 2 degrees BTDC) which will change if you live at a high altitude.
2. What wire should be disconnected to disable the spark advance. (This has the same effect as unplugging the vacuum advance hose on old distributors.
Once you have confirmed where to set the timing and how to disable the spark advance follow these steps.
1. Get the engine up to normal operating temperature.
2. Connect your timing light to the battery and to the #1 plug wire. On a Chevy engine this will be the front driver's side cylinder.
3. Scribe a mark on the base of the distributor and down onto the intake as a reference point in case you need to return the distributor to its "original" position.
4. Loosen the 9/16" bolt that holds the distributor clamp down. This will require a special wrench available at any auto parts store. Loosen this bolt only enough to allow you to spin the distributor with resistance. If it is too loose, you can cause the distributor to spin out of control causing damage to the wires.
5. Locate the timing tab on the timing chain cover. It will be welded to the cover and will be visible if you look straight down between the water pump and the block. You will need to use a rag and cleaner to degrease it so you can see the marks. Yours will likely not have any numbers. If not, the deepest triangular notch is TDC. Each notch represents 2 degrees. Notches to the passenger side are ATDC, notches to the drivers side are BTDC.
6. Spin the crank pulley by hand until you locate the groove. Clean it off as well and mark it with some kind of paint so it is easily visible. If you are needing to install the distributor before setting the timing, remember that the crank pulley comes around twice for wach revolution of the camshaft; once at TDC and once at BDC.
7. Make sure all the wires for the timing light are clear of any belts, pulleys or the fan and start the engine.
8. Shine the light at the timing tab and look for the line on the balancer. Whatever groove on the timing tab the balancer line is showing at indicates where the timing is currently set. Spin the distributor one way or the other to get the line to align with the apropriate notch in the timing tab.
9. Tighten the distributor clamp bolt and recheck the timing.
10. Reconnect the spark advance wire.
NOTE: If the line wanders while shining the light on it, this indicates a worn timing chain and gears. In order to set the timing, these items will need to be replaced. 305s are notorious for excessive wear in the timing sets because they were manufactured with nylon gears at the factory to reduce engine noise. If replacement is required purchase an all steel double roller set which will cost a little more than a standard single roller set, but is much stronger and well worth the extra investment.
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