Innova 5568a - User Manual

The Innova 5568 Professional Timing Light is a sophisticated diagnostic tool designed for automotive enthusiasts and professionals to accurately check and adjust engine timing on a wide range of vehicles. This timing light is engineered for use with all 12-volt negative-ground vehicles, including those equipped with Distributorless Ignition Systems (DIS), making it a versatile addition to any mechanic's toolkit. Its primary function is to illuminate the engine's timing marks with a bright strobe light, allowing users to precisely observe the ignition timing relative to the crankshaft position.

One of the key features of the Innova 5568 is its digital display and advanced controls, which provide comprehensive engine operating parameters. The device incorporates a Xenon bulb for powerful illumination of timing marks, ensuring clear visibility even in challenging engine bay conditions. The swiveling head, which contains the Xenon bulb, can rotate approximately 70 degrees. This ergonomic design allows for easy illumination of timing marks in hard-to-reach locations, enhancing user convenience and accuracy during timing checks.

The control panel of the timing light is intuitively designed, featuring an LCD display that provides real-time digital readouts of various engine parameters. These include engine speed (RPM), advance (degrees), dwell angle (degrees), and battery and charging system voltage. The information displayed on the LCD is dynamic, changing based on the selected operating mode. To facilitate use in dimly lit environments, the LCD display is backlit with a soft blue light, ensuring excellent visibility of the readings.

Operating the Innova 5568 involves a straightforward process. The Flash Switch allows users to turn the strobe light on and off with a simple push. The Function (F) Switch is crucial for selecting the timing light's operating mode, enabling users to toggle between voltage/RPM, advance, or dwell modes. An RPM Indicator is present on the display, which activates when either 2-cycle (DIS) or 4-cycle RPM mode is selected, providing essential engine speed information.

The timing light connects to the vehicle's electrical system and ignition through a set of detachable inductive pickup leads. These leads include a Red Battery Clip for connection to the battery's positive (+) terminal and a Black Battery Clip for connection to the battery's negative (-) terminal or a bare metal chassis ground. The Inductive Pickup Clip clamps around the No. 1 spark plug cable, detecting the ignition pulse to trigger the strobe light. For vehicles with conventional or electronic ignition systems, a Green DWELL Clip connects to the negative (tach) side of the ignition coil, enabling dwell angle measurements.

The Innova 5568 offers several distinct operating modes, each tailored for specific diagnostic tasks. In Battery Voltage Mode, with the engine off, the timing light displays the battery voltage, indicated by the Battery VOLTS indicator, Volt symbol, and Battery symbol on the LCD. Once the engine is started, the device automatically transitions to Voltage/RPM Mode, showing the charging system battery voltage and engine RPM. This mode is indicated by the Charging System Battery VOLTS indicator, Volt symbol, and Ignition Mode symbol (either 2-cycle (DIS) or 4-cycle).

For checking dwell angle, a critical parameter for vehicles with conventional or electronic ignition systems, the Dwell Mode can be selected using the Function (F) switch. In this mode, the DWELL Indicator, Cylinder Symbol, and Dwell Angle Symbol appear on the display. Users can then use the Cylinder/Advance Increment and Decrement switches to select the appropriate number of cylinders for the vehicle under test, and the LCD will display the selected cylinder count along with the dwell angle. This feature allows for precise adjustment of the dwell angle according to manufacturer specifications.

The Advance Mode is designed for checking and adjusting ignition advance. When this mode is selected, the ADVANCE indicator and Advance Degree symbol are displayed. The LCD shows "0" degrees advance and engine RPM initially. Users can then use the Cylinder/Advance Increment switch to realign timing marks to the initial timing, and the display will show the degrees of advance. This is particularly useful for checking centrifugal/mechanical advance, vacuum advance, and electronic advance/retard systems. The Zeroing Switch allows users to return the LCD advance degrees to zero when in advance mode, simplifying the process of setting initial timing.

An important feature for compatibility with different ignition systems is the Ignition System Selection. By pressing both the Function (F) switch and the Cylinder/Advance Decrement switch simultaneously, users can select either 2-cycle (DIS) or 4-cycle timing light operating mode, ensuring accurate readings for various engine types.

Maintenance of the Innova 5568 is straightforward, focusing on ensuring the longevity and accuracy of the device. Regular cleaning of the inductive pickup clip is essential. Dirt or grease on the inside surfaces of the clip can lead to erratic flashing or poor operation of the timing light. Periodically wiping the contact surfaces inside the inductive pickup clip with a soft cloth helps maintain optimal performance. The timing light is also designed with detachable leads, which can be disconnected for easy storage after use. If the test leads or clips become damaged, a replacement set can be obtained from a dealer or service center, ensuring the device remains functional over time.

In summary, the Innova 5568 Professional Timing Light is a robust and user-friendly diagnostic tool that combines advanced digital readouts with practical design features. Its ability to measure RPM, voltage, dwell, and ignition advance, coupled with its adaptable connection system and ergonomic swiveling head, makes it an indispensable instrument for accurate engine timing checks and adjustments across a broad spectrum of vehicles. The emphasis on clear display, intuitive controls, and simple maintenance ensures that users can achieve reliable and precise results, contributing to optimal engine performance and longevity.