Ignition Timing

NOTE: Perform all adjustments with engine at normal operating temperature, cooling fan and accessories off, transmission in Park or Neutral, and front wheels in straight-ahead position.

NOTE: Adjustment of ignition timing cannot be performed on vehicles equipped with Distributorless Ignition Systems (DIS). If ignition timing is not within specification, refer to the appropriate CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR in SYSTEM/COMPONENT TESTS - 1.5L article.

Locate ignition timing adjustment connector. See IGNITION TIMING ADJUSTMENT CONNECTOR LOCATION table. Connect jumper wire between ignition timing adjustment connector and ground. Check ignition basic timing.

If ignition basic timing is not within specification, loosen distributor and rotate to adjust timing if necessary. See IGNITION TIMING SPECIFICATIONS table. Remove jumper wire from ignition timing adjustment connector.

IGNITION TIMING SPECIFICATIONS (Degrees BTDC @ RPM)

Application

⁽¹⁾ Basic

⁽²⁾⁽³⁾ Actual

Calif. Emissions

2-8 @ 650-750

10 @ 650-750

Federal Emissions

3-7 @ 650-750

10 @ 650-750

⁽¹⁾	With ignition timing adjustment connector grounded or vacuum hose (farthest from distributor) disconnected.

⁽²⁾	With ignition timing adjustment connector ungrounded or vacuum hose (farthest from distributor) connected. Ignition timing may fluctuate.

⁽³⁾	If vehicle altitude is more than 2300 feet above sea level, actual timing may be advanced (5 degrees).

NOTE: Ignition timing adjustment connector is either round or oval with protective cover. Connector is either Black or Brown and is secured to harness with colored transparent tape.

IGNITION TIMING ADJUSTMENT CONNECTOR LOCATION

Application

⁽¹⁾ Wire Color

Location

Mirage & Summit

Black/Blue

⁽²⁾

⁽¹⁾	Remove waterproof female connector (if equipped) for access to wire. Ground connector at wire end for basic timing adjustment.

⁽²⁾	On main wiring harness, near center of firewall.