Ignition Timing: Adjustments

IGNITION TIMING ADJUSTMENT

NOTE: To obtain optimum engine performance, the distributor must be correctly positioned on the engine to give proper ignition timing.

Firing Order 2.2L:

- Connect a suitable timing light to number one cylinder.
- Connect red lead of the test tachometer unit to the negative primary terminal of the coil and the black lead to a good ground.
- Start engine and run until operating temperature is obtained.
- With engine at normal operating temperature (off fast idle), momentarily open the throttle and release to make sure there is no bind in the linkage and that the idle speed screw is against its stop.




- Connect a jumper wire between the carburetor switch and ground.




- Disconnect and plug at the vacuum line at the Spark Control Computer.
- Check engine rpm.
- If the engine rpm is at or below the curb idle speed, proceed to next step.
- If the engine rpm is higher, turn the idle speed screw (on top of solenoid) until the specified curb idle speed is reached.

TIMING MARK 2.2L:

- Aim timing light at timing hole in bell housing.
- If flash occurs when timing mark is before specified degree mark, timing is advanced. To adjust, turn distributor housing in direction of rotor rotation.
- If flash occurs when timing mark is after specified degree mark, timing is retarded. To adjust, turn distributor housing against direction of rotor rotation.
- If timing is withing 2 degrees of specification, proceed.




- Loosen distributor hold-down arm screw just enough so the distributor housing can be rotated in its mounting. Turn distributor housing until timing is within specification. Tighten the hold-down arm screw and recheck timing. When timing is acceptable, recheck curb idle rpm. If engine rpm is above curb idle speed, reset idle speed and recheck timing. Repeat above until both engine rpm and timing are acceptable.
- Remove timing light. Unplug and reconnect the vacuum hose to the Spark Control Computer.
- If curb idle speed is not within 50 rpm of specification, readjust curb idle speed, do not readjust timing.
- Turn engine off. Remove the jumper wire and tachometer