Glossary / General

timing

40 Episode Mentions

Too Afraid to Ask

Timing is like setting a clock for when the spark plug should fire. If it's too early or late, the engine won’t run smoothly.

Technical Definition

Timing in an engine context usually refers to ignition timing, the point at which spark plugs fire relative to piston position. Proper timing is essential for efficient combustion and performance.

Hear It Discussed

"you should ask this guy to check the timing the timing yeah okay because the timing could be off i mean there are a lot of other things that could be wrong with it"
#2631: The MechanXfiles The Best of Car Talk 19:26

"Well, I think they also said they were limiting the timing. So I wonder if that would send a bunch of fuel to the cat"
Our Race Recap w/ Tommy Kendall and Mateo Siderman The Smoking Tire 59:53

"We're going to have to make sure the timing is set correctly. And then the new engines now with variable cams and stuff in them, they're running."
More Talk About Cars and Automotive Stuff Under The Hood show 12:17