Dynamic ignition timing

Before the introduction of a strobe light, ignition timing was done statically in that the distributor was moved a certain measured amount. With modern engines, a timing light or strobe light is used. It is connected, generally, with the spark plug of the number one cylinder. As power is provided to that cylinder from the coil, the timing light flashes. When the light is projected to the flywheel, the timing marks are illuminated. Moving the distributor will make the timing mark move closer to a fixed mark (retarded) or further away (advanced). Also called stroboscopic ignition timing. The opposite is static ignition timing