I'm just finishing of the 199a engine rebuild, put new points in & gapped them to 0.4mm. I've gone to set the timing & found that I can't get it set any closer than 4mm before top. The ignition is fully retarded, that is the backplate is fully turned anticlockwise up against the screws in the slots. I'm a bit stumped, has anyone come across this before?

Dave.

adjust the timing on the points a little see if you can get to 2.5btdc with a smaller gap, its not critical as long as they have a gap.

alternatively move the back plate.

I always adjust my timing on the points btw.

Thanks Nigel, I'll give it a try in the morning.

I assume you marked the backplate before dismantling?

Sounds like you've done it right. Point gap first then timing. I'd check how thick the points rubbing block is and compare it to what came out of the bike. It might be part of the issue. I'm always hesitant to make timing adjustments with gap only. The reason the gap is specified .4 mm is to maximize the life of the points and condenser. In any case I'd check the new points very carefully

Steve

changing points on a bulto is part of regular fettling, i wouldnt worry about life of them they will need changing pretty often.