System Inspection

1. Visually inspect the components of the ignition system for:



^ Damaged or worn distributor cap and rotor

^ Damaged spark plugs

^ Improperly seated spark plug, distributor cap, or rotor

^ Corroded, contaminated, or carbon fouled distributor cap

^ Discharged battery

^ Damaged, loose connectors

^ Damaged insulation

^ Poor coil, distributor, and spark plug connections

^ Blown fuses

2. Check the vehicle's maintenance schedule to ensure that the spark plugs have been properly maintained/replaced every 60,000 miles.


3. Check the spark plug wires and boots for signs of poor insulation that could cause cross firing.


4. Check for a damaged or worn timing belt, which can cause symptoms that appear to be timing related.


5. Make sure the engine idle speed and base timing are within specification.