How to Use a Timing Light with Advance on Your Engine

Learning how to use a timing light with advance is one of those skills that separates the weekend oil-changers from the people who really know their way around a classic engine. If you've ever dealt with a car that pings under load or feels sluggish when you stomp on the gas, your ignition timing is likely the culprit. While a basic light gets the job done for factory settings, an advance light—often called a "dial-back" light—gives you a much clearer picture of what's happening as your RPMs climb. ...

February 14, 2026 · 7 min · Vip Kerr