Magneto Static Timing Light
- Andy Marks
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
This guide explains how to use a magneto static timing light to accurately set ignition timing on vintage and classic motorcycles. Designed for use with all makes of magneto, and battery/coil equipped engines, these instructions provide a clear, reliable method for checking and setting timing during restoration or routine maintenance.
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, preignition 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. Powered by 3 AA batteries (included), this magneto static timing light comes ready to use and will work on all types of magneto and battery/coil ignition circuits too!
Instructions for use
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 done 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
FAQs
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!
Download
We hope you found this useful - please click on the file below to download a PDF copy for your own records.
Kingpin Components Magneto Vernier Sprockets
The timing lights work really well with our vernier sprockets which we sell for Norton, Rudge and AMC engines. These are all available in our online shop. Please click on the link below to take a look
Magneto drive chains and sprockets for reliable ignition timing on vintage British motorcycles.
Comments