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Ignition Timing

NOTE: Ignition timing is not adjustable.
NOTE: To perform this procedure, you need a timing light that will flash when it detects a signal from the primary side of the ignition coil (ignition is distributorless).
  1. Warm engine to normal operating temperature. Turn ignition off. Connect timing light lead to spark plug wire for No. 4 cylinder.
  2. Remove instrument panel fuse box cover and connect scan tester to Data Link Connector (DLC) No. 3. See Fig 1. Scan tester is used to read engine RPM.
  3. Apply parking brake. Ensure all accessories are off. Place transmission Neutral. Start engine and maintain engine speed at 2500 RPM for 90 seconds and then allow engine to idle. Ensure idle speed is 650-750 RPM.
  4. Install Jumper Wire (SST 09843-18020) between terminals TE1 and E1 of DLC No. 1. See Fig 2. Connector is located near air intake chamber. Check base timing. See IGNITION TIMING  table.
  5. If base timing is correct, go to next step. If base timing is not correct, check for one or more of the following conditions, repair as necessary, then go to next step:
    • Throttle valve is being prevented from fully closing.
    • Throttle position sensor is misadjusted (indicated by no continuity between terminals IDL1 and E2 of throttle position sensor connector). See THROTTLE POSITION (TP) SENSOR .
    • Valve timing is incorrect (timing belt is incorrectly installed).
  6. Disconnect jumper wire from DLC No. 1. Check controlled timing. Ensure controlled timing is within specification. See IGNITION TIMING  table. If controlled timing is not within specification, problem exists in engine control system.
Fig 1: Connecting Scan Tester To Data Link Connector (DLC) No. 3
G94C45346Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
IGNITION TIMING (Degrees BTDC @ RPM)

Application (1) Base Timing (2) Controlled Timing
Ignition Timing 8-12 @ 650-750 7-24 @ 650-750
(1) Jumper wire connected between terminals TE1 and E1 of DLC No. 1. See Fig 2.
(2) Jumper wire disconnected from DLC No. 1.
Fig 2: Identifying Data Link Connector (DLC) No. 1 Terminals
G93D78165Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002