I still have my self-powered Flaming River light but if I remember correctly I hated it because the light was almost impossible to see during the day, and the light was never straight-on, but at an angle. What’s out there now that’s a quality and accurate piece that works well. I don’t want or need some crazy high dollar wiz-bang light that sets timing for the Space Shuttle or I have to attend a seminar on how to use it LOL.

However, if I’ve gotta spend some bucks for good visible light, accuracy, quality and simplicity, which light is the model to have nowadays? Thanks.

An old Penske/Sears chrome light (I forget the number right now but can find it) from ebay, an old Ferret Model 80 from wherever you can find one or an MSD. None of which should have any advance or RPM gadgets.

What if you have one with the advance, would it still be accurate with the advance set on 0?

innova 5568

I have a Flaming River light, too. And it sucks for the reasons mentioned. I second the Craftsman/Penske light. Best light I have ever used. I actually have 2 that I have bought from Craigslist and Marketplace. Like $10 or so for each. If time is not a big issue, shop those places for one of them.

I really really liked and trusted my adjustable Summit timing light. I know better that to do this with a trusted tool as I’ve been screwed way to many times but I loaned it to a buddy to take to the track. My last words were please don’t burn the cables. You guys know the ending to this story.

Not according to every thing I've seen. They don't like multi strike (MSD) ignitions. And they can't keep up at higher RPMs

Always mint or NOS Sears lights on egag. I'll have to find the numbers for the desirable units when I have a moment.

The old MSD lights were actually these relabeled.

The Ferret 80 is the one to have. Good luck finding one for sale.

One of the battery operated ones is also a good one. But it looks like the cheaper units that aren't so good and is commonly mistaken for it. I'll have to find that as well. I have notes stashed.

The MSD 8991is probably the best available new. $$$$ Buy once, cry once. Don't loan it.

Wes , I have two of Sears chrome ones . They work great . Unfortunately you probably would have to search eBay to find one as I’m not sure they sell them anymore

Thanks everyone.

I bought a new MSD 8991 light from Summit's Pro Shop, and found/bought a old brand new Sears chrome light for a spare off eBay. Should be good to go now.

Perfect. Those old Sears/Penske lights in mint condition are going up in price. Used to be able to get one for $20.

Is the 8991 still made in the US?

My good old chrome craftsman doesn't seem to like MSD ignition.




I was thinking of getting that one, but the amazon reviews don't look so rosy. Has anyone actually bought one of these?

https://www.amazon.com/MSD-8991-Tim...ition+8991&qid=1620149874&sr=8-1

You should buy that, then let me use it. I'll let you know how it works. LOL.

It would be nice for cars that don't have a battery in the engine bay, and the 6 volt cars.

Yes, still made in USA. Was happy about that.

I bought one. I didn’t read any of the reviews, especially Amazon. Quite a few well known engine builders use them, and a little birdie also recommended it. Mine arrives tomorrow, so I’ll try it out this weekend.

I have one of the old chrome Craftsman timing lights that has failed.

Is there anyplace that repairs them?

Thanks!

Some lights that won't work will work fine if you just hook it up to a spare battery. Somehow the MSD running on the car battery screws it up.

Mine does not whine when the red button is pushed, regardless of how it is powered.

I got 2 chrome Craftsman timing lights that I don't use anymore. One is standard and the other has the advance dial. $20 ea + shipping. Also Snap On digital with case and instructions $125 + shipping.