Ignition Points Adjustment - Harley VL - Rider's Manual

Adjusting the Ignition Circuit Breaker Points on a VL 

This how-to article applies to 1930-1936 Harley Davidson V series motorcycles and originally appeared in the rider's manual

To clean points, use a tungsten point file or a piece of fine sand-paper. To adjust points, turn motor to a position where cam 8 (see image below) is holding the points at their widest opening, then loosen adjustment lock screws 5, and shift contact point 3 as necessary to adjust the gap between the points to .020 to .024 inch 

If at any time it becomes necessary to take the circuit breaker and timer assembly apart, before doing so, inspect for a file mark across the edge of assembly, indicating the original factory setting. If none is found, make one to enable reassembling as originally set, thus maintaining correct timing.

Circuit Breaker 

1-Timing mark; 2-Breaker cover re-timer; 3-Adjustable contact point; 4-Breaker lever contact point; 5-Contact point adjustment lock screws; 6-Breaker lever; 7-Condenser; 8-Cam; 9-Adjustable contact point base; 10-Friction spring which aids screws 5 in holding point base 9 tight, thus maintaining correct adjustment; 11-Breaker lever spring