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Ignition Timing

NOTE: Engines are equipped with a receptacle for magnetic probe timing lights, located 10° ATDC. Do not use this location for timing with a conventional light.
  1. Connect an adapter between No. 1 spark plug wire or use an inductive type pick-up. Do not puncture wires. Connect timing light according to manufacturer's instructions.
  2. Check or adjust ignition timing with engine at normal operating temperature, distributor vacuum line (if equipped) disconnected and plugged. Light duty models with automatic transmission should be in Drive; all others in Neutral.
  3. On California Models with HEI-EST and HEI-ESC distributors, disconnect 4-wire plug connector at distributor when checking ignition timing. Once timing has been set, reconnect connector and clear trouble code from computer.
IGNITION TIMING SPECIFICATIONS (DEGREES BTDC @ RPM)

Application Man. Trans. Auto. Trans
5.0L
Federal 4 @ 700 (1) 4 @ 550
Calif. N/A 6 @ 550
5.7L
Light Duty
Federal 8 @ 700 (2) 8 @ 550
Calif. N/A 6 @ 550
Heavy Duty
Federal 4 @ 800 4 @ 700
Calif. 6 @ 700 6 @ 700
7.4L 4 @ 700 4 @ 800
(1) High altitude specification is 4 @ 600.
(2) High altitude specification is 10 @ 600.