Timing on a 46 H

I have a 46 H with distributor. What is the easiest way to adjust timing? Can it be done without a light?

Well, that depends. I learned how to time a distributor by listening to the engine as you turn it. That doesn't make you "perfect", but it sure will get the job done if you are not looking for the absolute best setting for your engine. If good enough is good enough, run the engine up on full throttle, then with the base loose, turn the distributor one way, then the other. When you get max RPM's and a clear, full exhaust sound, you are on the money.

Otherwise, use a timing light OR..... These tractors were all designed to have the initial timing on TDC. Getting to TDC is relatively simple. with the ignition off, remove plug #1, and loosen the rest. Turn the engine over until your feel the compression stroke starting. I use a wooden dowel rod in the plug hole to "feel" the piston coming up as you slowly keep turning it over by hand. Once you have #1 at TDC, then take the cap off your distributor. rotate it until the rotor is point at approx 2 oclock (#1 plug wire on the cap.). you are now timed to TDC.

Rotating towards the engine (CCW) advances the timing. Rotation away from the engine (CW) retards the timing. If you use a starter and not the hand crank, you can advance your timing a bit, but not too much.

My advice is to time it to TDC, and let the distributor handle the advance it was designed for.