Ignition Timing

CAUTION: Some tachometers may not be compatible with ignition system. Consult tachometer manufacturer for instructions. To prevent ignitor and coil damage, DO NOT allow tachometer terminal to touch ground.

Ensure engine is at normal operating temperature. Connect timing light to engine. Connect tachometer to engine. See Fig 1.
On Tercel, disconnect and plug vacuum hose(s) at distributor sub-diaphragm. See Fig 2. Start engine and ensure idle speed is within specification. See IDLE SPEED SPECIFICATIONS table under IDLE SPEED in this article.
Ensure timing is within specification. See IGNITION TIMING table in this article. Adjust timing by turning distributor. Reconnect vacuum hose(s) and ensure advance timing is within specification.

IGNITION TIMING ⁽¹⁾

Application

Base Timing

Advance Timing

Tercel

3 @ 950

12-18 @ 950

⁽¹⁾	Timing may be adjusted at maximum of 950 RPM.

Fig 1: Installing Tachometer (Tercel)

Fig 2: Disconnecting Sub-Diaphragm Hoses (Tercel)