Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Ignition Timing

1. Check the condition of the engine (spark plugs, leaks in hoses, etc.).
2. Turn all electrical loads OFF.
3. Warm up the engine and run it for three minutes at 2,500-3,000 rpm
in neutral or park.
4. Connect a tachometer and timing light to engine.

Fig. 27 Test Connector:





5. Ground the test connector (green: 1-pin) with a jumper wire.
6. Check that the idle speed is within specification.

Idle speed
700 ± 20 rpm in neutral or park

Fig. 32 Timing Mark DOHC:





7. Check that the timing mark (YELLOW) on the crankshaft pulley and the mark on the timing belt cover are aligned.

Ignition timing
8° ± 1° BTDC

Fig. 33 Distributor Adjustment:





8. If the ignition timing is not within specification, loosen the distributor lock bolt and rotate the distributor housing to adjust.
9. Tighten the distributor lock bolt to the specified torque.

Torque specification
14-19 ft-lb (19-25 Nm)


10. After adjusting the ignition timing, disconnect the jumper wire from the test connector.