How to adjust the timing on a 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T?

Content verified by Michael G.
July 18, 2025
Want to get the best performance out of your 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T? Our easy-to-follow guide will help you adjust the timing for peak results. Find tips, tools, and expert advice right here!

Adjusting the timing on a 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T can improve engine performance, fuel efficiency, and overall drivability. You may notice issues like poor acceleration, engine knocking, or even rough idling, which can often be traced back to incorrect timing. Ensuring the correct timing is set is crucial for the engine to function properly. Here is how to solve this issue:

Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools
Before starting, you'll need a few tools:

  • Timing light
  • Wrench set
  • Chalk or a bright marker

Step 2: Locate the Harmonic Balancer
Open the hood and find the engine bay. The harmonic balancer is found at the front of the engine, around the crankshaft area. It appears as a large, round pulley with timing marks on its outer edge. This component rotates with the engine.

Step 3: Identify the Timing Marks
Clean off the harmonic balancer with a rag to make the timing marks easier to see. The marks include lines or numbers indicating degrees of timing. Use chalk or a marker to highlight the desired timing mark. Typically, the factory specification for a 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T is around 8-12 degrees Before Top Dead Center (BTDC), but consult your service manual for exact specs.

Step 4: Connect the Timing Light
Attach the timing light to the battery of the vehicle—red to positive and black to negative. Next, connect the timing light's inductive pickup to the #1 spark plug wire, which is usually the first wire on the front passenger-side cylinder.

Step 5: Start the Engine
Start your car and let it idle until it reaches normal operating temperature. Ensure the timing light is working by pressing the trigger and pointing it at the harmonic balancer. You should see the timing mark illuminated.

Step 6: Adjust the Distributor
Locate the distributor at the top of the engine. It has a cap with several spark plug wires attached to it. Loosen the bolt that holds the distributor clamp using a wrench. Be cautious not to remove it entirely.

Rotate the distributor slightly:

  • Turning it clockwise will retard the timing.
  • Turning it counterclockwise will advance the timing.

Step 7: Use the Timing Light to Set the Timing
As you rotate the distributor, keep the timing light pointed at the harmonic balancer. Align the illuminated timing mark with the factory-specified timing indicator on the timing cover.

Step 8: Tighten the Distributor Clamp
Once the timing is correctly set, carefully tighten the bolt on the distributor clamp without altering the distributor's position.

Step 9: Double-check the Timing
Recheck the timing with the timing light to ensure that the timing mark remains correctly aligned.

Step 10: Turn Off the Engine and Remove Tools
Shut off the engine and disconnect the timing light and any other tools.

By following these steps, you will have successfully adjusted the timing on your 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T, likely improving its performance and running characteristics.

Still Struggling? Sign Up to Ask a Car Expert and Get a Consultation—For Free!

Join Our Community & Get Instant Access to Expert-Verified Repair Guides

What our members say

Discover how AutoFame.com has empowered fellow car enthusiasts—from weekend DIY mechanics to seasoned collectors—to document, restore, and celebrate their automotive stories like never before.

Stars - Elements Webflow Library - BRIX Templates

"AutoFame.com took my collection’s documentation to the next level. Before, I had scattered notes and old photos in boxes—now everything’s organized and accessible in one place. The AI-driven narratives also helped me craft a fascinating story around my ‘67 Mustang’s history that I proudly share at shows!"

Mark R., Classic Car Collector

Member since Dec'24
Stars - Elements Webflow Library - BRIX Templates

"I’m not a professional mechanic, but I love working on my car. AutoFame.com’s step-by-step guides and community forums gave me the confidence to tackle issues on my own. Last month, I fixed a stubborn headlight alignment problem in minutes. It’s like having a trusted car expert on speed dial."

Martin K., Weekend DIY Mechanic

Member since Sep'24
Stars - Elements Webflow Library - BRIX Templates

"AutoFame.com’s AI-driven insights blew me away. It automatically pulled up detailed specs and historical data on my BMW M3, and even composed a compelling narrative for my show board. When I shared it at a local event, everyone wanted to know how I put it together. AutoFame.com made me look like a pro!"

Alex M., Performance Enthusiast

Member since Sep'24
Stars - Elements Webflow Library - BRIX Templates

"I’ve been restoring my grandfather’s old Chevy pickup, and AutoFame.com has been a lifesaver. The vast data access helped me confirm original specs, and the documentation tools ensure I never lose track of my progress. My project went from chaotic guesswork to a well-organized, enjoyable journey."

Clara J., Restoration Hobbyist

Member since Jun'24
Stars - Elements Webflow Library - BRIX Templates

"AutoFame.com isn’t just about data—it’s about community. I run a local car club, and we’ve started using their event listings and forums to keep everyone updated. Our members love how easy it is to share photos, ask questions, and discover new shows. It’s brought our club closer together and boosted our turnout!

Trevor S., Car Club Organizer

Member since Jan'24
Icon - Elements Webflow Library - BRIX Templates
Icon - Elements Webflow Library - BRIX Templates

Classic cars have appreciated 185%

That's just over the last decade according to the night Franks Luxury Investment Index, making it the best-performing asset class of any other type of collectible. AutoFame.com was developed to take your car collection and preservation the extra mile with a growing list of innovative features.

AI-Driven Insights and Narratives

Utilize cutting-edge AI to discover fascinating facts about your car and compose engaging, descriptive narratives that highlight its unique story.

Extensive Data Access

Access vast datasets to populate your car’s specifications, title history, and more, ensuring your records are detailed and accurate.

Comprehensive Documentation

Document key aspects of your car’s history, maintenance, restoration, customization, and performance. Preserve every detail that makes your car special.

Multimedia Cloud Storage

Store photos, videos, and records of awards or special recognition, creating a rich, visual history of your vehicle.

Community Engagement

Join group forums and participate in event postings to connect with fellow car enthusiasts and build a supportive community.

Privacy and Sharing Control

Enjoy complete control over your privacy and sharing settings. Share your car’s legacy through a searchable gallery or on social media platforms with ease.

Mobile-Friendly Platform

Our mobile-friendly platform makes it easy to document and share your car’s legacy anytime, anywhere.

Value Creation

Discover, preserve, and share the legacy of your precious automotive assets to increase their appeal and value.