I changed the point for an electronic ignition! First I changed the coil for a new one as it was still the original. Next took the top off the old dizzy cap, removed old unit and replaced with new. Swapped leads on top of old dizzy onto new in same order. Fired it up and it just turned over at first but no spark. Noticed the new units shaft wasn't fully seated in the hole. Wiggled it till fully seated then tried again. Engine started first time! Connected the timing strobe up and made small adjustments till top dead centre. This is the result: A couple of questions: 1 I used the lead in the centre of the dizzy to attach the strobe - is that right? 2 The new unit is seated as far in the hole as I could get it but there is still about 0.5mm gap - is this ok?
Use No. 1 lead for the strobe, as for point 2, bit confused what you mean. There should be a gap between the unit and the shaft on the collar. .5mm OK
Yep, pot nearest the sink, if it's a righthand drive. As for the gap, could be better or worse. but shouldn't be there. Some Dub guru will more than likely say it's OK, so don't quote me.
Pony didn't read your question properly. Look into the engine bay. No.1 CYLINDER is right side nearest front of the van. Follow the lead back to the distributor but you can attach you light anywhere along this lead. The mark is the timing mark - 7.5 BTDC, not TDC. I assume you've timed to this mark/crankcase split which is correct. It would work on the king lead as you have it, but will be flashing 4x as much as needed.
Thanks @zed. I will trace the lead as described tomorrow morning. I don't understand the bit about "7.5 BTDC, not TDC" as I don't really know what I am doing! I followed @Lasty example from Techenders when we set the points. I lined the timing mark up to the notch top dead centre, started the engine and then made slight adjustments to the whole unit until the mark stayed top centre when ticking over. I am feeling quite proud of myself for having ago and getting this far without having to call the AA or @rickyrooo1 to come round! The engine is running sweeter than it ever has and feels more responsive.