A practical ignition timing strobe for 12V engines, the OBDMONSTER Ignition Timing Light helps re-time ignitions on cars, motorcycles and marine engines for smoother running. Home mechanics gain confidence when adjusting timing without guesswork. Is the unit robust and simple enough for regular workshop use?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Timing Accuracy: Strong strobe flash synchronises with ignition pulses, viewable on flywheel or pulley timing marks
- • Best for: DIY mechanics and mobile technicians tuning ignition on 12V petrol engines
- • Not ideal for: Workshops needing wireless diagnostics or non-12V electrical systems
A 12V strobe light with a sliding clamp-on inductive pick-up reads ignition pulses and displays timing marks. Colour-coded sensor clips and a pistol-style handle simplify hookup and operation.
Clear timing marks – with a strong high-intensity strobe flash
High-intensity flash synchronises with ignition pulses via the inductive pick-up clamped to the high-tension lead, making each firing visible against timing scale marks. The arrow on the induction clamp indicates spark-plug direction so pulses are read correctly.
Makes it straightforward to align timing marks on the flywheel or pulley, allowing accurate advance/retard adjustments during tune-ups.
Easy, one-handed operation – thanks to pistol-style handle and press keys
Ergonomic pistol-style design places control buttons within thumb reach, while the sliding inductive pick-up avoids fiddly wired connections. Colour-coded red and black sensor clips identify positive and negative battery connections.
Reduces setup time and hand fatigue, so repeated adjustments are quicker and less awkward in a cramped engine bay.
Broad engine compatibility – with 12V support for two- and four-stroke petrol engines
Designed for 12V ignition systems and advertised as suitable for cars, motorcycles and marine applications, the timing light can read timing behaviour across a range of small petrol engines. It can also detect changes in advance angle related to vacuum advance systems and knock suppression control.
Useful for hobbyists and mechanics working on a variety of vehicles, able to reveal advance angle shifts as engine speed changes.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for OBDMONSTER Ignition Timing Light
- Knock suppression detection - Helps identify knock-related timing issues quickly and clearly
- Directional HV clamp - Ensures correct clamp orientation to avoid incorrect timing readings
- Pistol-style handle - Offers comfortable grip and precise control during lengthy tuning sessions
- Colour-coded sensor clips - Speeds up hookup and reduces polarity errors on 12V systems
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Category: Ignition Timing Light
- Power Supply: 12V
- Compatibility: Cars, motorcycles, marine engines; two- and four-stroke gasoline engines
- Flash Type: Strong strobe timing light
- Pick-up: Sliding clamp-on inductive pick-up for high-tension leads
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can the timing light be used on motorcycles and boats?
A: Yes, suitability is stated for cars, motorcycles and marine engines, provided the ignition system runs on 12V.
Q: How do I connect the timing light to the engine?
A: Connect the red clip to battery positive and the black clip to battery negative, clamp the high-voltage induction clamp onto the ignition lead with the arrow pointing toward the spark plug, and use the sliding inductive pick-up for safe hookup.
Q: Can the device show changes in advance angle or detect knock control systems?
A: Yes, the unit can detect the knock suppression control system and vacuum advance angle control, and will show changes in advance angle as engine speed changes.
🏆 Our Verdict
Perfect for DIY mechanics and mobile technicians who need a straightforward way to check and set ignition timing. Strong strobe illumination combined with a clamp-on inductive pick-up and clear hookup cues makes timing marks easy to read and adjust. With a budget-focused design and simple operation, expect dependable long-term value for routine workshop tuning.
