Tach pulse setting

[bmuone 15]

I have read the previous post on tachometers and settings. I could not find the answer to the question I have. I have a 417A (31-17KE02). I have a old sears marine universal tachometer. It is old but never been used. Inside the tach there is a setting switch with numbers 1 through 5. Which setting should I use? Tks....Dayton

[bitten 133]

Dayton

Im not sure but I think the settings are for how many cylinders you have.

[sorekiwi 761]

I've never had any luck getting an electric tach to work on any small engine.

I use a "Vibratach" which is a mechanical device that measures the frequency of the vibration and gives you a reading. It works great!

There are some threads about them here too.

[bmuone 15]

Thank you fellers. I guess I will go scientific. I'll try all settings and see if any seem about right to fit the sound. I overhauled the carb is why I was trying this tach out. I have it running pretty clean but did not want to over rev it. I'll let you know. Have a good day.......Dayton

[sorekiwi 761]

Just something to keep in mind...

Some (all??) Tecumsehs fire the coil on every revolution, (I think Onans too ), Kohler K's fire every second revolution like normal.

Let us know how you get on, and if you need to do any math to get a good number!

[bmuone 15]

Well I plugged in to the number 2 setting and the idle was perfect at 1200. The high side ran up to 2000 before I chickened out and pulled back. So I think I still have a little fine tuning to do. But right now gotta clean up and get ready for a one year old dude. Poppy gotta be the only baby sitter this afternoon. Check ya later......Dayton