New Shade tree mechanic needs advice

Hi I have a Mallory dual-point distributor on a 40 ford coupe...350 chev engine....and I would like a step by step guide as to how to set the points and dwell. I have never messed with a dual point before.

Also, in setting the timing and adjusting the carb..which should be done first? I would appreciate some tips on adjusting the carb. It is a carter afb. Thanks Tip

Woof, It's been so long since I've seen a dual points dist. that I really don't remember! I've been running CD ign. systems and recently the Pertronix point contact system that I haven't even really dealt with points for 5 years. All I can say is that one set of the points determines the closing of the point contact and the other one is the opening of the point contact closure. Set one to close first and then open again after the second has closed and then set the timing with the second one when it finally opens. You will be able to set the dwell for higher than with the single point system which will enable more current to go through the coil, allowing for a hotter spark. Sorry that I can't be of more help there. As to the carb, get the timing set and then you can deal with the carb, keeping the revs about 600-700rpm with the idle opening screw and set both of the mix screws to maximize the rpms of the engine at idle. Occasionally blip the throttle open to get rid of any problems of plugs fouling. Also, do the setting of the carb while the engine is hot. You will find that the adjustments can change whether the engine is fully hot or just cool and you want the adjustments set when fully hot.

Try http://www.centuryperformance.com/point_settings.htm Should have what you

Sounds like Mallory really missed the boat on the external setting feature of the Chevy point dist. Making the dist. that way can make for some interesting sounds when the points are not set correctly.

Don't worry about the dwell, Take the dist. out and clamp it in a vise carefully. then use a feeler guage you can buy a miniature one which will work best.

I just put in a Pertronix system about 4 months ago and its made a world of difference. I had an old Crane XR700 system that worked ok until I hit a speed bump really hard. Then it died big time. It was actually an old Alisson unit (Crane bought the rights to manufacture it), and they wouldn't honor the warantee. The car really does run smoother and starts up much faster especailly on cold mornings. It was actually easy to install, too, and I got it on sale from J.C. Whitney for about $60 I think. Well worth it.

Marty Chin