Ignition Timing

Start and warm engine to normal operating temperature. Ensure engine oil temperature is at least 176°F (80°C). Ensure A/C and electrical loads are off, including cooling fan.
Ensure no Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) are stored. Ensure throttle cable and closed throttle position switch are properly adjusted. Ensure idle air control valve is okay. Valve must vibrate or hum. Ensure exhaust system has no leaks.
Disconnect Blue Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor wiring harness connector. Start engine and allow to idle. With timing light connected, check ignition timing. Timing mark is on flywheel. Timing pointer is on timing hole on transaxle bellhousing.
If necessary, loosen distributor hold-down. Adjust ignition timing to 5-7 BTDC by rotating distributor. Ensure radiator cooling fan is not running during adjustment. Check and adjust idle speed if necessary. See IDLE SPEED & MIXTURE .
After adjustment, tighten distributor hold-down. To check ignition timing advance, ensure ignition timing is correctly set. Increase engine speed to about 4500 RPM. See IGNITION TIMING ADVANCE table.

IGNITION TIMING ADVANCE (Degrees BTDC @ RPM)

Application

Specification

⁽¹⁾ 27-33 @ 4500

⁽¹⁾	Vehicle not in BASIC ADJUSTMENT mode, engine oil temp. at 176°F (80°C), and Blue engine coolant temp. sensor connected.