Setting the Timing

This is not going to discuss the effects of timing at all -- it will only instruct how to determine the current timing, and to act as a guide on setting the timing. To learn more about what timing is (a brief description), click here.

Timing Diagram

This diagram is supposed to depict an electric motor held in front of the observer with the motor shaft pointed towards the viewer. The mounting holes are paired at the top and bottom. The orientation of which side is up is unimportant. The neutral timing mark is a line which runs from the motor shaft between the mounting holes. The timing angle theta is the angle between this neutral timing line and a similar line drawn between the motor shaft and the timing mark on the endbell. It should be clear from the picture. An acute angle measured clockwise from the zero timing line to the indicated timing line indicates positive timing for a standard counterclockwise rotation motor. This is desireable.

Photo of a real motor with a zero degree timing mark inscribed

Any problems, let me know, and I'll try to rectify 'em. Lemme know if this page is clear or if you have no clue what I'm talking about.