I have just restored a 1990 ktm 500, two-stroke, and I am not sure about what ignition time spec should run with. I know the ignition time spec is very important for engine performance, and would like to ensure I am using the correct one. I low time spec would result is significant power output. I also know a high time spec would damage the engine (and your foot when kick-starting!).
I have a manual for a 1990 ktm 350 cc and it says ignition time spec should be 2.1 mm Before Top Dead Center (B.T.D.C.). I own some other 350 cc bikes (360 h7 Montesas, with similar 350 cc engines and compression ratios), and they properly run with 3.0 mm BTDC time spec. So I do not understand why the ktm 350 time spec is lower.
Assuming the 2.1 mm spec is correct for the ktm 350, should not the ktm 500 run with a bigger spec, let´s say 2.5 mm, or 3.0 mm ?. A bigger spec would seem logical to me, since there is more volume of compressed mixture to ignite since sparks till piston reaches its TDC
Your views appreciated.
Regards,,,,, Jurado.
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