Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Ignition Timing


1. Connect a tachometer and a timing light to the vehicle. If using a non-digital tachometer, see "NON-DIGITAL TACHOMETER MODIFICATION" in "IGNITION SYSTEMS" for connection procedure.
2. If the vehicle is equipped with a manual transmission, remove the plastic plug from the bellhousing.
3. Start the engine and bring it to normal operating temperature.
4. Check that the idle speed is 850 - 1000 rpm. Adjust if necessary.
5. Point the timing light at the timing mark access hole. The timing mark should align with the pointer on the bellhousing. If it does not, loosen the distributor hold down bolt and turn the distributor until it does, then retighten the bolt.
6. Shut off the engine. If the vehicle is equipped with an digital idle stabilizer (DIS):
a. Disconnect the terminals an reconnect them to the idle stabilizer.
b. Restart the engine and accelerate it to at least 2000 RPM, then let it idle.
c. Check that the idle speed is between 850 and 1000 RPM. Adjust if necessary.
7. Shut off the engine and remove all test equipment. If the timing hole plug was removed, replace it.