BSA Gold star 350 ignition timing, points and valve clearances adjustments discussed.

Following the first time out for me on this machine a few days ago, and finding the compression not feeling all it should be at the kickstart, I decided it might be an idea to tighten the cylinder head nuts and make sure there was a slight clearance at the valves, which is checked by feeler gauge between the cam followers and bases of the pushrods - I set a 0,003" clearance, rather than the 'Nil' I set previously and this seemed to help a little.
I also decided to check the ignition points and timing, and it turned out to be a good decision, as it happens!

[@rogerlishman2532]

Ah, memories rejuvenated of the Piston Position Indicator we used on the aircraft radial engines decades ago (probably on other engine layouts as well). However your plunger looks a lot neater.

[@neilmcintosh1200]

Yet again, a seemingly simple piece of equipment is in actuality seriously sophisticated and very easy to set-up incorrectly. The BSA competition shop made extensive use of their Dynometer when developing the top ends of their bikes. I so wish I still had my "Gold Star Book" by Moose Brain-Smith. It was a treasure trove of detailed information.

[@MegaTubescreamer]

👍 its not been bad today here paul, mild and warm
south yorkshire, there`s always another day for test
rides, 😁

[@anthonydexter262]

Everyday is a learning day.... always a cracking video 👍

[@paulhenshaw4514]

Thanks 👍

[@jimbo8009]

I was rather hoping for a Christmas rant Paul. Never mind this one was interesting.

[@kevinphipps3644]

Still time

[@rockerace5879]

Just setting mine now, and noticed on your mag pinnion wheel it's set to the stud hole at before TDC. The manual states setting in that position at TDC. What's the preference?. Cheers

[@paulhenshaw4514]

From what I remember, the magneto pinion was just on a taper, with no key. I would have set the magneto lever to full advance and set the piston to its relevant position btdc, to set the timing with the points just breaking open.

[@hermangibbs8163]

Very good sir.

[@norsehall309]

G'day Paul, timing, it took me 6 goes to time my 1960 Super Rocket with auto advance, run sweet now, Question how often should you check the timing on a classic Motorcycle, l check mine every 1000 miles or yearly??, Bet you timed this Norton first time, cheers mate, Neil 🤠.

[@paulhenshaw4514]

Hi Neil, I rarely check the timing after setting it, unless the engine starts to go out of tune for whatever reason.

[@PatrickWhitaker-ls2cs]

Dry tomorrow allegedly