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Checking & Adjusting: Vanagon

  1. Warm engine to normal operating temperature. Stop engine and connect a tachometer and timing light to engine. Start engine and raise engine speed to a minimum of 2100 RPM at least 4 times, allowing throttle to close each time (this procedure must be repeated each time timing is checked).
  2. Disconnect coolant temperature sensor connector before checking ignition timing. See Fig 1 . Increase engine speed to specification when checking ignition timing. Notch on V-belt pulley must align with parting line on crankcase.
  3. If an adjustment is needed, turn ignition off and loosen distributor hold-down bolt just enough to move distributor by hand. Start and allow engine to idle. Turn distributor until timing mark notch on V-belt pulley is aligned with parting line on crankcase.
IGNITION TIMING (Degrees BTDC @ RPM)

Application Checking Adjusting
1.8L 4-8 @ 2250-2350 5-7 @ 2250-2350
2.1L 4-8 @ 2250-2350 5-7 @ 2250-2350
Fig 1: Coolant Temperature Sensor (Vanagon)
G61196Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.