Learn the Timing Specs for a 1979 Chevy 350 Engine

The timing specs for a 1979 Chevy 350 engine are 8 degrees BTDC (Before Top Dead Center) initial timing, and 32-34 degrees total advance.

1979 Chevy 350 Timing Specs

The Chevrolet 350 engine is an iconic American V8 engine that was first introduced in 1967. Its initial production was limited to just a few cars, but it quickly grew in popularity and became one of the most popular engines ever built. In 1979, the Chevy 350 timing specs were improved significantly, making it possible to increase performance further. With its smoother idling and increased efficiency, this engine has been able to maintain its incredibly high standards of performance across decades of use.

The Chevy 350’s timing specs are based on a number of principles: precision, reliability, and adjustability. The detailed timing specs ensure that the correct timing for each individual model is applied at the factory so that performance is maximized and engine life is prolonged. Additionally, these specifications enable the easy adjustment of engine timing from its standard setting without making major modifications to components or requiring extensive tuning.

In 1979, Chevy 350’s improved timing specs offered several advantages like improved fuel economy and better torque output. The enhanced accuracy allowed for more consistent performance at lower power settings like idle and light acceleration. Furthermore, this improved accuracy also reduced unnecessary wear on components due to increased tolerance for variations in temperature.

Overall, the 1979 Chevy 350 Timing Specs provided a reliable level of performance which ensured a long lifetime and consistent power delivery through decades’ worth of use making it an icon by any measure.

Timing Chain and Gear Setup

The 1979 Chevy 350 engine requires a timing chain and gear setup to control the opening and closing of the intake and exhaust valves. The timing chain is a metal loop that connects the crankshaft and camshaft, while the gear setup controls the speed of rotation of each shaft. The chain should be checked for wear, elongation, or any other signs of damage before installation. The gear setup should also be inspected for proper fitment, as well as any signs of wear or damage.

The timing gears should be set according to the manufacturer’s specifications, typically between 10 to 15 degrees BTDC (Before Top Dead Center). Failure to properly set up the gear setup could lead to improper valve timing or an increase in engine noise. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the gear teeth mesh properly with one another by checking for any signs of binding or misalignment.

RPMs Requirements

The 1979 Chevy 350 engine has a maximum RPM rating of 4500 RPMs and a recommended operating range between 2000-4000 RPMs. It is important to note that exceeding the maximum RPM rating can cause significant engine damage due to increased wear on internal components such as pistons, bearings, and valves. It is recommended to use an RPM gauge to accurately monitor your engine’s RPMs while driving in order to avoid any potential damage.

Valve Clearance Settings

In order for your 1979 Chevy 350 engine to run properly, it is important to adjust your valve clearance settings accordingly. The valve clearances should be set between 0.010-0.015 inches for both intake and exhaust valves when cold (at room temperature). To adjust valve clearances, you must remove each valve cover individually in order to access each individual valve stem rocker arm assembly. Once all valve covers are removed you can adjust each individual rocker arm by adjusting its corresponding adjusting screw until it meets the desired clearance setting listed above.

Ignition Timing Adjustment

The ignition timing on your 1979 Chevy 350 engine must also be adjusted in order for it to run properly. The initial adjustment should be performed using a timing light at idle speed with all accessories disconnected from the vehicle (A/C compressor, power steering pump etc.). The initial timing setting should be set according 10-12 degrees BTDC with all accessories disconnected from the vehicle at idle speed (600-700 RPM). After initial adjustment has been completed, you can fine tune your ignition timing using a vacuum gauge or strobe light if necessary depending on your driving conditions (high altitude etc.).

Vacuum Advance Specifications

The 1979 Chevy 350 engine utilizes a vacuum advance system which helps improve its overall performance by increasing fuel economy and reducing emissions during part throttle acceleration conditions such as highway driving or city driving where steady acceleration occurs over extended periods of time. To ensure proper operation of this system it is important verify that all vacuum hoses are securely connected at their respective hookup locations located near the carburetor or throttle body area depending on your application. Additionally, it is important confirm that all vacuums hoses are not blocked off due debris buildup or disconnected from their respective components before attempting adjustments as this could lead too improper operation of this system resulting in poor drivability issues such as hesitation upon acceleration or rough idle conditions when stopped at traffic lights for example . Lastly ,it is also important adjust vacuum advance settings accordingly depending on driving conditions such us high altitude driving where additional advance may be needed due lower air density levels at higher altitudes .

Fuel Injection System and Distributor Tuning

The 1979 Chevy 350 engine featured a fuel injection system with a distributor for tuning. To replace the distributor, the following tools and parts are necessary: spark plugs, spark plug wires, a new distributor cap, a new rotor, and a new ignition module. It is important to ensure that all components are properly torqued when installing the new distributor.

Torque Specifications for Components

When replacing the distributor on a 1979 Chevy 350 engine, it is important to adhere to the torque specifications of the components. The connecting rod bolts should be torqued to 18-22 foot pounds while the intake manifold bolts should be torqued to 15-20 foot pounds.

Maintenance Tips for 1979 Chevy 350 Engines

Regular maintenance of 1979 Chevy 350 engines is essential for keeping them running smoothly and efficiently. Oil changes should be done every 3,000 miles or as recommended by the manufacturer. Additionally, other components such as air filters should be checked regularly and replaced whenever necessary. It is also important to use high quality fuel in your engine.

Troubleshooting Problems with Pinging or Detonation on 1979 Chevy 350 Engines

If you experience pinging or detonation in your 1979 Chevy 350 engine, there are several areas that you can check to determine if there is an improper air/fuel mixture ratio or incorrect ignition timing. To begin troubleshooting, first check for any vacuum leaks that may be causing an improper air/fuel mixture ratio. Additionally, if you have recently adjusted your ignition timing, make sure it is set correctly according to manufacturer specifications. If these areas appear normal then it may be time for a tune-up including spark plugs and wires to ensure optimal performance from your engine.

FAQ & Answers

Q: What are the timing specs for a 1979 Chevy 350 engine?
A: The timing specs for a 1979 Chevy 350 engine include the timing chain and gear setup, the RPM requirements, valve clearance settings, ignition timing adjustment, vacuum advance specifications, fuel injection system and distributor tuning, torque specifications for components, and maintenance tips.

Q: What are the torque specifications for components on a 1979 Chevy 350 engine?
A: The torque specifications for components on a 1979 Chevy 350 engine include the connecting rod bolts (23-30 ft.-lbs.), intake manifold bolts (7-11 ft.-lbs.), valve cover bolts (7-11 ft.-lbs.), and rocker arm nuts (15-20 ft.-lbs.).

Q: What is the recommended RPM range for a 1979 Chevy 350 engine?
A: The recommended RPM range for a 1979 Chevy 350 engine is between 2,500 and 3,500 RPMs.

Q: How often should I change the oil in my 1979 Chevy 350 engine?
A: You should change the oil in your 1979 Chevy 350 engine every 3 months or 3,000 miles. Additionally, you should check all other components of your engine on a regular basis to ensure proper maintenance.

Q: How can I troubleshoot problems with pinging or detonation on my 1979 Chevy 350 Engine?
A: To troubleshoot problems with pinging or detonation on your 1979 Chevy 350 Engine, you should check areas such as air/fuel mixture ratios and ignition timing to ensure they are appropriate. Additionally, you may need to replace certain parts in your fuel injection system or distributor.

In conclusion, the 1979 Chevy 350 engine has a timing specification of 8 degrees of initial advance and 28 degrees of total advance. This is important to ensure that the engine runs smoothly and efficiently. It is important to note that these specifications may vary depending on the type of car, so it is important to check with your manual for more information about your specific model.