Ignition Timing

***UPDATED BY TSB# G00190, JUNE 1990

Warning When adjusting the ignition timing, keep hands, clothing, hair and tools away from the p/s drive belt.


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.

Fig. 38 Black Test Connector:

4. Connect a tachometer to engine.

a) Connect a tachometer to the check connector at the trailing side coil with igniter.
b) If the tachometer does not function properly on the trailing side coil with igniter, reconnect to the leading side coil with igniter (black connector).
c) If using a inductive (Secondary pickup) type tachometer, connect it only at the trailing side high tension leads. If connected on the leading side coil with igniter, it will function incorrectly.

Fig. 37 Test Connector:

5. Ground the test connector (green: 1-pin) with a jumper wire.
6. Check that the idle speed is within specification. If not refer to IDLE ADJUSTMENT.

Idle speed
750 ± 25 rpm

7. Connect a timing light to the high-tension lead of the front leading-side (If you experience timing light operation problems Refer to TSB# G00190, JUNE 1990).

Fig. 35 Timing Marks:

8. Check that the mark on the pulley is aligned with the indicator pin.
9. Connect the timing light to the high-tension lead of the front trailing-side, and check the timing.

Ignition timing:
Leading: 5° ± 1°ATDC (Yellow)
Trailing: 20° ± 2° ATDC (Red)

Fig. 36 Crank Angle Sensor Adjustment:

10. If necessary, remove the blind cap and loosen the lock bolt, and adjust the ignition timing by turning the crank angle sensor.
11. After adjusting the ignition timing tighten the lock bolt.

Tightening torque: 7.8-10.8 Nm (80-110 cm-kg, 69-95 in-lb)

12. Install a new blind cap.