The biggest breakthrough was changing from SAE degrees to Metric degrees.

 

We used the Jegs wheel with the crank alignment from them. It’s cheap and easy to use. The metal ones could rust or have the degree lines come off. Those expensive ones just are not worth it.

 

Any large wheel (like 16") with spokes is a good tool to have in your garage. It's nice to be able to reach through the wheel to make timing adjustments if you have an adjustable sprocket or something. You'll want a centering hub too. It's also pretty nice to have one of those dial indicator tools that sit on the rim of the lifter, like the Proform 66838.

 

Could always go digital wheel.

 

I was going to point out that digital setups are out there, so I’m glad you brought this up. They are spendy but I know a couple shops that swear by them. I like a wheel just fine as long as I have a pro-series windowed pointer on it. I hate the wire or clothes hanger method that a lot of kits come with. I use an old Comp wheel in my shop for everything I do.

 

Old friend/competitor of mine has one. They are pretty cool. he seemed think it was faster to set up and get the #s.