timing marks on stator

[ctys20]

Okay, I'm getting ready to install a rebuilt 717 engine in a 98 sportster and the manual is pretty clear about rotary timing but ignition timing is not so clear. Apparently there are supposed to be match-marks on the stator/case that are aligned when stator is installed.

I wasn't able to find any such marks on my stator and the SBT team said just center the stator and everything will be fine?? This seems to be pretty important and I would like to get it right the 1st time so I don't have to reopen the magneto case.

If I don't have a mark on my stator what is the procedure to install for correct timing? Also the pictures in the manual and the one I found online at fullbore are rather out of focus and not too helpful.

Thanks

 

[ctys20]

Just thinking out loud here......the stator is basically like the 717's distributor/rotor?? so should I install it when the engine is at TDC or when the plug is supposed to fire .10(?) inch BTDC

It makes sense that the mark on the stator/case are permanent b/c unlike the PTO marking the stator is bolted on and doesn't move......I will have to clean it up really well and try finding my mark but it would still be good to know how this works

 

[ctys20]

More thinking out loud here but I guess if worse comes to worse I can advance or retard the timing after checking with a timing light BUT geeeeze that sounds like a lot of tinkering.

And the SBT team emailed me and said there is no special procedure when installing the stator???? I will find out soon enough

 

[frederick]

hi did you sort your timing as I am having same problem. everyone says use timing marks but I cant seem to find any anywhere. mite try what you said and set it in the middle unless anyone else can chip in .

 

[ctys20]

hi did you sort your timing as I am having same problem. everyone says use timing marks but I cant seem to find any anywhere. mite try what you said and set it in the middle unless anyone else can chip in .

I'm on a road trip at the moment and wont get around to monkeying around with this for a few weeks - I'm just trying to understand how these engines work. The manual is pretty clear on rotary timing but I can't really follow their diagrams on the stator, and the few online pictures are almost as unhelpful.

Anyhow, the first thing I need to do is clean all my parts up really well b/c this mark is probably easy to miss. But it would make sense that the stator should have a mark b/c it's reference to the crankshaft should not change (unlike the PTO wheel that screws on?)

These 2 strokes are basically like large lawnmower engines, no valves, can shafts, ect, so I guess the people at SBT could be right when they say if you cant find the mark just center it (as long as it's close??), BUT I would sure feel better to know it's done right the first time...........

 

[frederick]

I found the mark on the stator plate (it was right under the screw+washer that holds it in place.) and on closer inspection with a magnifying glass I found the one on the back plate it was approx. the 9 oclock position.
but it still dosnt start. im gona try another flywheel.
hope you get yours sorted GOOD LUCK

 

[ctys20]

Just found time to work on this again and I also found the timing marks around the 9 o-clock position (see picture) SBT was probably right that "centering" the stator would be good enough but I feel better knowing the proper installation method. Now I wait for new carb and I have a whole bunch of upholstery to work on http://s1244.photobucket.com/user/bordercollie050/media/armature_zps3b807f9b.jpg.html?sort=3&o=0