Recommendation for digital timing light/rpm meter

[Phil Waterman]

I have had a number of timing lights over the years, you did mention if you were working on 6volt 12 or 24 volts, old ignition or high voltage, so hear are a couple of general thoughts.

I use a induction clamp 12 volt unit for all my work. To get around the voltage issue on MVs I use a spare 12 volt battery to power it. The ones out of computer UPS units work quite nicely.

The old stile timing lights that were put in series with the spark lead can be rather lively to use with modern high voltage ignition system. Read that as they will likely shock the hell out you.

Now as to tachometer I have found that most of the combination tach dwell timing lights have trouble working with 6 volt ignition systems.

As to independent tachs what ever you do don't bother with the little self contained digital ones see photo. I've had four of them none were accurate, they did replace them every time I asked though. Being highly inconsistent and slow reading so the RPM you see may be anything form 4 to 30 seconds late. Their other function as an hour meter never worked for me. If anybody has figured out how to really make these work the way they are described in the ads please share the trick.

I'm looking for a small 2"diameter for my engine test stand but so far most I have found are 0-8000 or 0-10000 RPM when what I want is full swing 0-5000 RPM so they gradations will be more meaningful with CMP engines. My reason for looking of a 2" diameter unit is they fit nicely above the windshield on Pat 13s for road testing.

Cheers Phil

[Matthew Reid]

Hi Phil

These guys should suit your needs.

http://www.autometer.com/cat_gaugede...earch&gid=3239

http://www.isspro.com/proddetail.php?prod=R8509



Matthew

Originally Posted by Phil Waterman

I'm looking for a small 2"diameter for my engine test stand but so far most I have found are 0-8000 or 0-10000 RPM when what I want is full swing 0-5000 RPM so they gradations will be more meaningful with CMP engines. My reason for looking of a 2" diameter unit is they fit nicely above the windshield on Pat 13s for road testing.

Cheers Phil

[Phil Waterman]

Originally Posted by matthewq4b

Hi Phil

These guys should suit your needs.

http://www.autometer.com/cat_gaugede...earch&gid=3239

http://www.isspro.com/proddetail.php?prod=R8509



Matthew

Hi Mathew

Thanks those look perfect, thanks particular for the links to manufactures websites, so much more information than auto parts houses.

Auto Meter instructions sheet http://www.autometer.com/productPDF/0972A.pdf US Price $125 at a store 15 miles from home.

Isspro unit looks very interesting well catalog http://www.isspro.com/catalog/ISSPRO...log%202006.pdf .

Cheers Phil