How do I time my sewing machine?

I was given a Singer Sewing Machine because it wasn't working right. I Think it's a model 7110. That's the number under the Singer Logo.

The needle is hitting down on a metal plate, it doesn't seem the hole for the needle is coming around at the right time for needle. From what I've gathered on these websites it must be the timing and I've never heard of timing a sewing machine before. I've owned an old Brother electric, HEAVY, machine for 41 years and never timed it. Please help me.