When I start my v12 it initially pinks as it starts,
It doesn't pink when driving just on start
up when warm. Which way do I turn the
screw on the side of the dizzy to retard?

 

All mine did that, and I never bothered with it, PreHE and HE.

If you really want to adjust it, the body of the distributor needs to rotate Clockwise as looking at the top of it.

 

Thanks Grant I might not bother then, do you use lead additive?

 

Rex
Grant, not Greg (though I am flattered)! No lead additive is required. I suspect that the pinking is just because of a weak mixture because of fuel evaporation when hot. I bet if you raised the bonnet when hot and waited the normal length of time for the problem to arise and then started the car it would not pink. Assuming 98 octane, of course, and assuming it only pinks for a short time?
Also, if my guess turns out to be wrong, before changing the timing I would ensure the CTS is dead on and the TPS too, and that the plugs are NGKs and gapped dead right!.

 

Thanks . I put a brand new gunson gastester on it yesterday and it was actually 1.6. so I uped it to 2.3 I haven't driven it since so I'll see on Sunday. I have new Champions fitted 1500 miles ago all gaped correct

 

Does 'pinking' mean the same thing as 'pinging' on the other side of the pond?

 

I reckon so.

We all have different takes on the same word/thing.

Boot/Trunk
Bonnet/Hood.
Etc.
Thank goodness for Google, especially when sorting Aussie to anything else, we be special.

Rex, MATE
Load up the beast, a LARGE carton of Red Plonk in the boot. Head for France. I have NO idea where Greg lives, BUT with an XJS, Plonk in the boot, he will sniff you out in no time.
The car will love ya, that is what they are for, and I know its getting harder. Down here, Premium Unleaded in nudging $3 per ltr, DAMN.