Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Federal, Canada

Ignition timing, checking and adjusting

Requirement
- engine oil temperature 80°C (176°F) minimum

- switch ignition OFF




- connect VAG 1367 engine tester using VAG 1367/8 inductive pickup

- start engine and let idle




- disconnect (blue) coolant temperature sensor (arrow)
- check ignition timing at 2000 to 2500 RPM

Ignition timing is displayed directly on VAG 1367
- checking 4° to 8° BTDC



With stroboscope




- aim strobe directly at flywheel opening
- checking 4° to 8° BTDC

Regardless of checking method, if adjustment is necessary, proceed as follows
- destroy tamper proof cap covering head of distributor base clamp bolt
- loosen distributor base clamp
- rotate distributor as necessary to obtain specification
- adjust 6° ± 1° BTDC

- re-connect coolant temperature sensor (blue)
- raise engine speed three times then let engine idle
- check idle speed
- 800 ± 30 RPM, adjust if necessary, Testing and Inspection