If you've ever been confused about spark advance, you're not alone.
In this episode of On the Dyno, Bob Morreale explains what spark advance really is, how it affects power, and — most importantly — why it differs from engine to engine, even when running the same fuel.
Spark advance is how far before top dead center (TDC) the spark plug fires in the combustion cycle.
Why do we light the fuel before the piston gets to the top? Because:
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Combustion takes time
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The flame needs to build and be ready to push the piston down at exactly the right moment
Too early = pressure fights the piston
Too late = power chases the piston down = lost power
At The Tuning School, we teach a safe, step-by-step method:
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Start conservatively (e.g., 10–15°)
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Increase spark in 2° increments
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Use a dyno to find peak power without knock
Want to Learn Spark Tuning the Right Way?
Our courses cover:
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Combustion dynamics
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Step-by-step spark optimization
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Knock detection and prevention
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Platform-specific spark tables