How to Boost Your Engine Performance with MSD Timing Tapes

If you are a car enthusiast, racer, or mechanic, you know how important it is to set the ignition timing correctly for your engine. Ignition timing is the process of adjusting when the spark plugs fire in relation to the piston position and the crankshaft rotation. The timing affects the engine’s power, efficiency, emissions, and performance. Too much or too little timing can cause engine damage, poor fuel economy, loss of power, or even engine failure.

To set the ignition timing, you need a timing light and a timing mark on the harmonic balancer or the crankshaft pulley. The timing mark indicates the top dead center (TDC) position of the piston in the cylinder. However, sometimes the timing mark is not visible, worn out, or inaccurate. This is where the MSD 8985 Timing Tapes : Automotive come in handy.

What are MSD 8985 Timing Tapes : Automotive?

MSD 8985 Timing Tapes : Automotive are self-adhesive tapes that you can apply to the harmonic balancer or the crankshaft pulley to create a new timing mark. The tapes are marked with one-degree increments from 14 degrees after top dead center (ATDC) to 64 degrees before top dead center (BTDC). The tapes are printed on a tough, chemical-resistant material that can withstand high temperatures and engine vibrations.

The MSD Timing Tapes come with eight different tapes to fit common balancers ranging from 5.25 to 8 inches in diameter. You can choose the tape that matches your balancer size and cut off the excess. The tapes are easy to install and remove, and they do not leave any residue on the balancer.

What are the benefits of MSD 8985 Timing Tapes : Automotive?

Using the MSD 8985 Timing Tapes : Automotive has several benefits for your engine and your vehicle. Here are some of them:

– You can set the ignition timing more accurately and precisely, which can improve the engine’s performance, efficiency, and reliability.
– You can see the exact position of the piston and the crankshaft, which can help you diagnose and troubleshoot any engine problems or malfunctions.
– You can adjust the timing to suit your driving style, preferences, or conditions, such as racing, towing, or cruising.
– You can save time and money by avoiding the need to buy a new balancer, replace the timing mark, or take your vehicle to a professional mechanic.

Who can use MSD 8985 Timing Tapes : Automotive?

MSD 8985 Timing Tapes : Automotive are designed for anyone who wants to set the ignition timing for their engine. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you can use the tapes to create a new timing mark and adjust the timing with a timing light. The tapes are compatible with any engine that has a harmonic balancer or a crankshaft pulley, such as gasoline, diesel, or hybrid engines. The tapes are also universal and can fit any vehicle make and model, such as cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, or boats.

How to use MSD 8985 Timing Tapes : Automotive?

Using the MSD 8985 Timing Tapes : Automotive is simple and straightforward. Here are the steps to follow:

– First, you need to find the top dead center (TDC) position of the piston in the cylinder. You can use a top dead center locator tool, a piston stop tool, or a dial indicator to find the TDC. Alternatively, you can use the existing timing mark on the balancer or the pulley, if it is visible and accurate.
– Next, you need to clean the surface of the balancer or the pulley with a degreaser or a solvent to remove any dirt, grease, or oil. Make sure the surface is dry and smooth before applying the tape.
– Then, you need to select the tape that matches your balancer or pulley size. Cut off the excess tape and peel off the backing paper. Align the TDC mark on the tape with the TDC position on the balancer or the pulley. Press the tape firmly and smoothly on the surface, making sure there are no bubbles or wrinkles.
– Finally, you need to use a timing light to check and adjust the ignition timing. Connect the timing light to the battery and the number one spark plug wire. Start the engine and point the timing light at the balancer or the pulley. You should see the timing mark on the tape flash in sync with the spark plug. Adjust the distributor or the timing control module until you reach the desired timing setting. Turn off the engine and disconnect the timing light.

How to compare MSD 8985 Timing Tapes : Automotive with similar products?

There are other products on the market that claim to offer the same function as the MSD 8985 Timing Tapes : Automotive. However, not all of them are as effective, reliable, or durable as the MSD product. Here is a comparison table that shows the differences between the MSD Timing Tapes and some of the similar products:

As you can see, the MSD 8985 Timing Tapes : Automotive have the best quality, durability, and visibility among the similar products. They also have the highest customer rating and the most positive reviews. The other products are cheaper, but they have lower quality, weaker adhesive, and poorer visibility. They also have more complaints and negative reviews from the customers.

What are some of the customer reviews of MSD 8985 Timing Tapes : Automotive?

The MSD 8985 Timing Tapes : Automotive have received many positive feedbacks and testimonials from the customers who have used them. Here are some of the representative customer reviews from Amazon:

– “I painted my torsion balancer and the TDC could barely be seen and the degree marks were totally covered. I used a Sharpie to trace the TDC line. The MSD timing tape is perfect. As others stated, you have one shot at putting this on. First, be sure the surface is clean, clean, clean. Otherwise, this or any other tape will not adhere. To install, I cut out my decal AND paper backit (8″ balancer). Next, with paper still attached, I lined up the decal to where it should be placed. Then I used a strip of masking tape (easily removable type) toward center of decal to secure the edge and keep it from moving – but leaves one end not secured. I added another piece in the center, just to help ensure the decal wouldn’t move. Next I removed the paper backing from one end that was not secured, and used a blade tocut away the paper backing. Then I carefully attached this loose end of the decal to the balancer. Now that the one end of the decal was secured, I then removed the masking tape, removed the remaining paper backing, and then carefully attached the rest of the decal. I’ve used this method in the past to adhere stencils for paint stripes and other things. If you do it this way, your decal will attach perfectly. Good luck.” – RL in MD
– “It stuck well and you can see the black lettering against the white background very well in my engine bay. I would recommend this product. Also, it shipped next day with Amazon Prime.” – Jason A Hutter
– “Very affordable & easy to install !” – Amazon Customer
– “You should have this! Long lasting and easy to apply!” – Craig Lewis
– “Temporary product. Cleaned the balancer very well and it peeled back after a little coolant splashed it and a few 7000rpm hits. Had to get some gorilla glue clear tape and go 360° around the balancer guess time will tell.” – ZAKI V

These reviews show that the customers are satisfied with the MSD 8985 Timing Tapes : Automotive and they appreciate the quality, durability, and visibility of the product. They also share their tips and tricks on how to install and use the tapes correctly. However, some customers also point out some drawbacks or limitations of the product, such as the need to find the TDC position, the possibility of peeling off, or the lack of compatibility with some balancers. These are some of the things you should consider before buying the product.

Conclusion

The MSD 8985 Timing Tapes : Automotive are a must-have tool for anyone who wants to set the ignition timing for their engine. They are easy to apply, remove, and read, and they can help you improve the engine’s performance, efficiency, and reliability. They are also affordable, universal, and durable, and they have received many positive reviews from the customers. However, they also have some drawbacks, such as the need to find the TDC position, the possibility of peeling off, or the lack of compatibility with some balancers. Therefore, you should weigh the pros and cons of the product before making your purchase decision.

If you are interested in buying the MSD 8985 Timing Tapes : Automotive, you can click on the link below to order them from Amazon. You can also check out other similar products or related accessories that might suit your needs. Thank you for reading this article and I hope you found it informative and helpful. If you have any questions, comments, or feedback, please feel free to leave them in the comment section below. I would love to hear from you and assist you with your queries.

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