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Ignition Timing

NOTE: Verify that increasing engine speed advances ignition timing.
  1. Ensure transmission is in Neutral or Park and parking brake is set. Inspect crankshaft pulley timing mark and timing scale on timing belt cover. Clean marks as required. Start engine, and warm it to normal operating temperature. Turn engine off. Turn ignition on for 5 seconds, then restart engine. Run engine at 2000 RPM for 5 minutes, and then return it to idle. Turn all accessories off. Attach timing light to No. 1 spark plug wire. Ensure idle speed is correct. See IDLE SPEED SPECIFICATIONS  table under IDLE SPEED & MIXTURE.
    CAUTION: Driving with jumper wire installed in monitor coupler will damage catalytic converter.
  2. Remove protective cap from monitor coupler located next to battery. Connect jumper wire between terminals "C" (ground) and "D" (test switch). See Fig 1 . Aim timing light at crankshaft pulley and timing cover timing marks. If ignition timing is not within specification, loosen distributor hold-down flange bolts, and rotate distributor to obtain correct ignition timing. See IGNITION TIMING  table. Tighten distributor hold-down flange bolts, and recheck ignition timing.
    NOTE: With jumper wire installed, timing should be fixed. If timing varies, terminal "D" is not properly grounded.
  3. Remove jumper wire from monitor coupler. Ensure ignition timing advances as engine speed increases. If ignition timing does not advance, check TPS, monitor coupler wiring circuit, engine start signal circuit and ECM.
Fig 1: Identifying Monitor Coupler Terminals
G119565Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.
IGNITION TIMING (Degrees BTDC @ RPM)

Application Man. Trans. Auto. Trans.
Samurai (1) 7-9 @ 800 Not Used
(1) With jumper wire installed between "C" and "D" terminals of monitor coupler connector, located near battery. See Fig 1 .