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Digital Timing Light | Professional Timing Light | 5568 Timing Light

Digital Timing Light

£179 £229 Save £50
  • Four Function Readout
  • One Hand Operation
  • Moulded Storage Case
  • Free UK Delivery Over £75

Price: £179 £229

  • Delivery time: 5-7 days after a 24-48 hour handling time
  • Free UK delivery on orders £75+, otherwise a flat £25
  • Pay by card or PayPal, handled by the payment provider
  • 14 days to change your mind, plus your statutory rights
Product specifications
TypeDigital inductive timing light
ReadoutFour function digital display
OperationOne handed
Supplied inMoulded plastic storage case
Shipping & returns

Tracked delivery anywhere in the United Kingdom. It is free on orders of £75 or more, and a flat £25 below that. Allow 5 to 7 days, after a 24 to 48 hour handling time.

Under the Consumer Rights Act 2022 you have 14 days from delivery to cancel for any reason, and a further 14 days to send it back in resaleable condition. We refund the price you paid, including standard delivery. You cover the cost of returning it unless the item is faulty.

If it arrives faulty, damaged or not as described, we put it right at no cost to you under the Consumer Rights Act 2022 and the EU Sale of Goods Directive 2019/771, return postage included.

Shipping details · Refunds and returns

Looking after it

Keep it in the supplied case, coil the inductive lead loosely rather than sharply, and wipe the lens clean so the flash stays bright.

Four Function ReadoutDigital display rather than guesswork
One Hand OperationLeaves your other hand free under the bonnet
Moulded Storage CaseKeeps the lead and the gun together
Free UK Delivery Over £75Delivered in 5 to 7 days

Set the ignition timing properly, not by ear.

A digital timing light with a four function readout and one hand operation, supplied in a moulded storage case.

Ignition timing is one of the few engine settings you can check yourself in a driveway, and one of the few where getting it wrong is expensive.

A timing light flashes in step with the spark so the timing marks on the crank pulley appear to stand still, which is what lets you read them.

This one has a digital four function readout rather than a plain strobe, so you get numbers instead of an interpretation.

It is shaped to be used one handed, which matters when your other hand is holding a torch or steadying the lead.

The moulded case is the part you appreciate a year later, when the tool and its leads are still in one place.

Digital Timing Light

A timing light works on a simple trick. It fires a bright flash at the exact moment a chosen cylinder sparks, so a spinning pulley looks frozen and you can read the timing mark against the scale.

Digital Timing Light

The difference between a basic strobe and a digital light is what happens after you can see the mark. A basic light shows you where the timing is. A digital one puts a number on it, and adds functions like advance, dwell and RPM depending on the model.

Digital Timing Light

One hand operation sounds like a small thing until you are leaning over a warm engine holding a light in one hand, a torch in the other, and trying to keep the inductive pickup clipped to the right lead.

This is a tool for petrol engines with conventional ignition timing you can adjust. Modern engines with fully mapped electronic ignition do not have a distributor to turn, so a timing light is a diagnostic rather than an adjustment there.

Keep it in its case. Timing lights get damaged by being loose in a toolbox, and the inductive lead is the part that goes first.

Not sure yet? That is fine.

You can change your mind. Under the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013 you have 14 days from delivery to cancel for any reason, and a further 14 days to send it back in resaleable condition. We refund the price you paid, including standard delivery.

If it turns up faulty, damaged or not as described, that is on us. The Consumer Rights Act 2015 covers you, we pay the return postage, and you can have a repair, a replacement or your money back. Read the full detail on our refunds and returns page, or ask us anything before you order.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a digital timing light, and how does it work?

A digital timing light is a tool used to measure ignition timing in a vehicle's engine. It works by illuminating the timing marks on the engine's crankshaft pulley or harmonic balancer, allowing the user to adjust the ignition timing accurately.

How can a professional timing light benefit me in engine tuning?

A professional timing light provides accurate timing readings, allowing for precise adjustments to optimize engine performance and fuel efficiency. It ensures that the ignition timing is set correctly, leading to smoother operation and better power delivery.

Where can I find a reliable 5568 timing light for my automotive needs?

You can find a reliable 5568 timing light at automotive supply stores, online retailers, and specialty tool shops. Look for trusted brands known for their quality and reliability in automotive diagnostics.

What makes a digital timing light an essential tool for engine maintenance?

A digital timing light is essential tool for engine maintenance as it allows mechanics and enthusiasts to accurately set ignition timing, which is crucial for proper engine performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions control.

Are there any special features to look for in a professional timing light?

Yes, the special features to look for in a professional timing lights are digital readouts, advance dials, and strobe functionality, providing versatility and ease of use for different engine types and tuning scenarios.

How can a 5568 timing light help me diagnose engine performance issues?

A 5568 timing light can help diagnose engine performance issues by providing accurate timing readings, allowing mechanics to identify problems such as incorrect ignition timing, misfires, and engine knocking.

Can a digital timing light be used on both gasoline and diesel engines?

Yes, a digital timing light can be used on both gasoline and diesel engines, making it a versatile tool for diagnosing and tuning various types of internal combustion engines.

What are some reputable brands known for their quality professional timing lights?

Some reputable brands known for their quality professional timing lights include Actron, Innova, Craftsman, and Snap-on, offering reliable tools for automotive diagnostics and tuning.

Do 5568 timing lights come with warranties?

Your statutory rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 apply to every order, so the timing light must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose and as described. If it arrives faulty or fails in normal use, get in touch with your order number. We do not sell a separate extended warranty.

How can a digital timing light help me improve engine performance?

A digital timing light helps improve engine performance by ensuring that the ignition timing is set correctly, resulting in smoother operation, better fuel efficiency, and increased power output.

Are there any safety precautions to consider when using a professional timing light?

Yes, there are safety precautions to consider when using a professional timing light such as wearing safety glasses and gloves, ensuring proper grounding, and avoiding contact with moving parts when using the timing light.

Can a 5568 timing light be used for tuning performance engines?

Yes, a 5568 timing light can be used for tuning performance engines, providing accurate timing readings for precise adjustments to ignition timing and fuel delivery.

How do I know if a digital timing light is compatible with my vehicle?

You will know if a digital timing light is compatible with my vehicle by looking to the information or guidelines to help you determine if they're suitable for your vehicle's ignition system and engine type.

Can a professional timing light be used for diagnostic purposes?

Yes, a professional timing light can be used for diagnostic purposes to identify issues such as faulty ignition timing, worn timing components, and engine misfires.

Can a 5568 timing light be used for basic engine maintenance?

Yes, a 5568 timing light can be used for basic engine maintenance tasks such as setting ignition timing, checking timing belt alignment, and diagnosing engine performance issues.

How long does it take to learn how to use a digital timing light effectively?

Learning to use a digital timing light effectively can vary depending on your familiarity with automotive diagnostics and engine tuning. With proper instruction and practice, most users can become proficient in a short time.

Can a professional timing light be used on older vehicles with carbureted engines?

Yes, a professional timing light can be used on older vehicles with carbureted engines, providing accurate timing readings for proper engine tuning and maintenance.

Are there any size or weight considerations for a 5568 timing light?

Yes, there are size or weight considerations when choosing a 5568 timing light, consider factors such as its size, weight, and ergonomic design to ensure comfortable handling and ease of use during extended diagnostic sessions.

Can a digital timing light be used for setting base ignition timing?

Yes, a digital timing light can be used for setting base ignition timing, ensuring that the engine's timing is correctly calibrated for optimal performance and efficiency.

How can a professional timing light help me avoid costly engine repairs?

A professional timing light helps avoid costly engine repairs by allowing for timely maintenance and tuning, preventing issues such as detonation, pre-ignition, and valve damage caused by incorrect ignition timing.

Can a 5568 timing light be used for tuning aftermarket performance upgrades?

Yes, a 5568 timing light can be used for tuning aftermarket performance upgrades such as aftermarket ignition systems, camshafts, and engine management systems, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.

What accessories are included with a typical digital timing light kit?

The accessories included in a digital timing light kit are a timing light unit, detachable leads with inductive pickup, a user manual, and a storage case for convenient organisation and transportation.

Can a professional timing light be used for setting camshaft timing?

Yes, a professional timing light can be used for setting camshaft timing on engines with adjustable camshaft sprockets or timing gears, ensuring precise valve timing for optimal engine performance.

Are there any maintenance requirements for a 5568 timing light?

Yes, there are maintenance requirements for a 5568 timing light. It's important to periodically check and calibrate the timing light to ensure accuracy and reliability. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for proper maintenance and care.

Can a digital timing light be used for troubleshooting engine misfires?

Yes, a digital timing light can be used for troubleshooting engine misfires by analyzing ignition timing patterns and identifying cylinders with irregular firing events.

Can a professional timing light be used for diagnosing timing belt or chain issues?

Yes, a professional timing light can be used for diagnosing timing belt or chain issues by verifying that the engine's camshaft and crankshaft are synchronized properly during operation.

Can a 5568 timing light be used for setting ignition advance?

Yes, a 5568 timing light can be used for setting ignition advance by adjusting the timing marks on the engine's harmonic balancer or timing cover to achieve the desired advance curve.

How can a digital timing light help me improve fuel efficiency?

A digital timing light helps improve fuel efficiency by ensuring that the ignition timing is optimized for the engine's operating conditions, leading to more complete combustion and reduced fuel consumption.

Can a professional timing light be used for diagnosing distributor-related issues?

Yes, a professional timing light can be used for diagnosing distributor-related issues such as worn distributor shafts, faulty ignition modules, and distributor cap or rotor damage.

How can a 5568 timing light help me maintain optimal engine performance?

A 5568 timing light helps maintain optimal engine performance by allowing for regular timing checks and adjustments, ensuring that the ignition timing is set correctly for maximum power, efficiency, and reliability.

Using a timing light

4 min read Online Auto Company

What ignition timing is

Ignition timing is how far before top dead centre the spark plug fires. Too far advanced and the engine pinks under load. Too far retarded and it feels flat and runs hot.

Manufacturers publish a figure for each engine. A timing light is how you check the engine is actually at that figure rather than where someone left it.

How the light works

Clip the inductive pickup around a plug lead. Every time that cylinder fires, the light flashes.

Because the flash happens at exactly the same point in every revolution, the timing marks on the crank pulley appear to stand still. You read the mark against the scale on the engine.

Working safely under the bonnet

Warm the engine to normal running temperature first, because timing is specified for a warm engine.

Keep the lead, your sleeves and the light itself clear of the fan and the belts. The fan on a warm engine can start without warning.

Do not stand in line with the belts, and put the handbrake on with the car out of gear before you start.

Reading the numbers

Note the figure at idle first, then check what the engine does as revs rise if your light reads advance.

Compare what you see against the figure in the workshop data for your engine. If the reading is steady but wrong, the timing needs adjusting. If the reading wanders, look at the distributor and its advance mechanism before you touch the setting.

What it will not do

On a modern engine with mapped electronic ignition there is nothing to turn. The ECU decides timing.

A timing light on that kind of engine is a check, not an adjustment. If the timing is wrong there, you are looking for a sensor or a mechanical fault such as a slipped belt, not a setting.

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Page summary

Digital timing light with a four function digital readout, designed for one hand operation and supplied in a moulded plastic storage case. Used to check and set ignition timing on petrol engines: an inductive pickup clips around a plug lead and the light flashes in step with the spark, freezing the crank pulley timing marks so they can be read against the engine scale. Check timing with the engine at normal running temperature. On modern engines with fully mapped electronic ignition, timing is controlled by the ECU and the light is a diagnostic rather than an adjustment tool. Store in the supplied case and avoid sharp bends in the inductive lead.