You understand that a 77 Lincoln mark V has 8 degrees retarded timing compared to thode of a 72 Lincoln Can you switch the timing set up and what would that involve Is there an easier way?

Answer 1

I presume you are asking about the valve timing, not the ignition timing for the 460cid engine. In theory, you could just install a timing set (crank and cam gears, new timing chain) for a 1972 engine. It will fit, and the cams are the same. This will do a couple of things. 1. The car will no longer meet emissions standards. (This is no joke. Did you know keeping your '77 tuned up will let it meet the emission inspection "cut points" for a 1994 model?) 2. Low end torque will improve, but the power band will move lower. My reference lists a difference of only 6 HP from '72 to '77, and the '72 had a higher compression ratio. They did more than just retard the cam. What will the job involve? Removing all of the accessories, water pump, timing cover, etc. Buy a Haynes or Chilton's manual for your car for step-by-step instructions.