Ignition Timing: Adjustments

1. Before inspection and adjustment, verify the following conditions:
- Engine coolant temperature: 80 - 95°C (176 - 203°F)
- Lights, electric cooling fan and all accessories: OFF
- Transaxle: Neutral (P range on vehicles with A/T)




2. Insert a paper clip into the 1 pin connector (blue) as shown in the illustration.




3. Connect a primary-voltage-detection type of tachometer to the paper clip.

NOTE: Do not use the scan tool. If tested with the scan tool connected to the data link connector, the ignition timing will not be the basic timing but be ordinary timing.

4. Set up a timing light.
5. Start the engine and run at idle.
6. Check that engine idle speed is within the standard value.

Curb idle speed: 700 ± 100 rpm




7. Turn the ignition switch to OFF.
8. Remove the waterproof connector from the ignition timing adjustment connector (brown).
9. Connect the jumper wire to the ignition timing adjustment terminal, and to a good ground as illustrated.

NOTE: Grounding this terminal sets the engine to basic ignition timing.




10. Start the engine and run it at idle.
11. Check that basic ignition timing is within the standard value.

Basic ignition timing: 5° BTDC ± 2°




12. If not within the standard value, loosen distributor hold down nuts and adjust by rotating distributor body. Tighten hold down nuts after adjusting.

Tightening torque: 12 Nm (8 ft.lbs.)

13. Stop the engine, remove the jumper wire from the ignition timing adjustment connector (brown), and return the connector to its original condition.
14. Start the engine and check that ignition timing is at the standard value.

Actual ignition timing: approx. 5° BTDC

NOTE: Ignition timing is variable within about ± 7°, even under normal operation. And it automatically advances by about 5° from 5° BTDC at higher altitudes.