Incorrect ignition timing? (video/pics)

[JakeP]

Recently replaced the head/all gaskets.

Woodruff key is in the crankshaft correctly, pulley is lined up with the dowel pin (also verified by physically checking that #1 is at tdc when the arrow and notched tooth line up), coil plugs seem to be in the right coils, plug wires are matching their cylinders, have oil pressure.

Engine sounds perfect with the plug wires off or the plugs pulled. (not a valve, cam, or other head related problem) but as soon as I plug the wires on the plugs it has a crazy knocking sound which means my ignition timing is off.

HALP

 
 

In this one you can see the notched tooth, the gap in the teeth, and the pin orientation.

 


 DON'T LISTEN TO THE LAST VIDEO UNTIL YOU TURN YOUR SPEAKERS DOWN. I accidentally covered the mic until 0:19.

Without plugs:
 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z1zmnQkv1yA&feature=youtube_gdata_player

With plugs:
 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMYdGkmtt3U&feature=youtube_gdata_player

With wires (you have been warned!):
 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWphZ0X-MOs&feature=youtube_gdata_player

[DesktopDave]

I'd triple-check those coil wires.  If the coil wires are wrong timing will be all wrong.  The car will run (very badly) with 2-3 and 1-4 swapped, no problem.  Those coil plugs originally had numbered stickers on them but they're likely long gone.


I'll look those wires up after the wife gives me my laptop back.  Just pull the DME plug and run a continuity test to the correct wire.  IIRC the middle socket is the signal wire from the DME.


Did you have the front covers off?  If so, did the TC idler wheel look OK?

[JakeP]

Idler wheel, tensioner, and guides were perfect.

Had multiple friends texting me, Figured it out. Intake cam got bumped before it was tightened, causing too much intake advance. Not ignition timing related. Thanks guys.

[DesktopDave]

Good to hear...your buddies sound really helpful - any chance they'd text any other M42'ers?