Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Ignition Timing: Adjustments



1. Precondition the engine as follows:
a. Engine coolant temperature greater than 185 degrees F.
b. Lights, electric cooling fan, and all electrical accessories off.
c. Transaxle in neutral or park.
d. Steering wheel in the neutral position.
e. Ignition timing verified correct.
2. Connect a timing light.


Engine Idle Speed Inspection:





3. Insert a paper clip into the CRC filter connector and connect a tachometer to the inserted clip.
4. Verify that Curb Idle Speed is 700 rpm ± 100 rpm.


Grounding Ignition Timing Adjustment Connector:






5. With the engine off ground the ignition timing adjustment terminal with a jumper lead.
6. START the engine and allow it to run at curb idle speed.


Measuring Ignition Timing:





7. Verify that Basic Ignition Timing is 5 ° BTDC.


Adjusting Ignition Timing:





8. If necessary loosen the distributor mounting nut and adjust timing by rotating the crank angle sensor.
9. STOP the engine and disconnect the grounding jumper.
10. START the engine and allow it to operate at curb idle speed.
11. Verify that Actual Ignition Timing = 10 degrees BTDC. (Actual ignition timing may vary slightly under the direction of the ECU. If necessary re-check Basic Ignition Timing. If it is still correct no further action is required.