McLaren:

How are you checking the timing? If you are using a drip tube, I'd suggest 24 degrees before TDC, as there isn't all that much difference between the actual operation of this pump and the one on the 617.

To set it properly, you need the sensor tool -- its a couple hundred bucks from Bosch or MB -- that screws into the side of the pump. The timing is 15 ATDC because that is when the arm with the point the tool "sees" swings past, not because that is when the plunger covers the filling slot in the pump sleeve. Two different ways to measure the pump position. The new way is much more accurate, by the way, and with the proper (much more expensive) tool, can be set with the engine running!

The car will start, reluctantly, if the timing is very late. Usually if it is really fast, it will hammer and sound like a sick over-the-road truck, making that "snort" when you open the throttle up. You will get smoke either way.

Peter

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1972 220D ?? miles
1988 300E 200,012
1987 300D Turbo killed 9/25/07, 275,000 miles
1985 Volvo 740 GLE Turobodiesel 218,000
1972 280 SE 4.5 165, 000 - It runs!