Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) 97' 12v timming

[Ram-Man Cummins]

OK I see you guys are advancing your timing to around 15-16 on these.

What will this do and will it be needed?

What degree of difficulty is it to do. I am mechanically inclinded so is it easier than doing a lift pump?

I will get the tools needed no problem, miller is good for that.

 

[Dan_69GTX]

Lower EGT, better upper RPM power (I noticed this a lot!), worse lower RPM (hardly noticable), some say better mileage - not for me, more fun to drive.



Check this FAQ out for your answers:

https://www.turbodieselregister.com/forums/showthread.php?t=96154



Dan

 

[TPCDrafting]

We set mine at 16. 5~

It starts easier, isn't sputtery (is that a word) when cold and idles really smooth. Some say it is quieter at idle too. Not sure on empty mileage improvement, it's not any better towing. Powerwise its not any faster on our local test hill.

It doesn't cost anything if you have the tools and knowhow. I don't have either, but I make good trades with my good friend R. ebel who knows what he's doing.

I think it's worth doing as mine was a bit below factory settings when we opened it up.

 

[CumminsPower98]

I went from 13. 25º to 16º on mine and I got better mileage (1. 5-2. 0 mpg), smoother idle, better top end power (seat of the pants). That's all I can think of that was noticeable. The job is not hard if you are careful and have the proper tools. The only hard part for me was getting the pump to stay in place when I went to pull the gear off. I have done four rigs and only one, a '97, stayed put while pulling the gear. I bought the Blue Point kit from Snap-on for $221 and it works great. -Mark-

 

[Ram-Man Cummins]

cumminspower98, was the gear puller in the snap on kit all that you needed or did you also need the thrust washers like they have in the miller kit for pulling the timming gear?

 

[CumminsPower98]

The Snap-on kit did it all without the thrust washers. I have not used or seen the Miller kit. The thrust washers may make it easier I don't know. Maybe someone who has used both will speak up. I read threads on this subject long ago but forgot what all was said back then.