How do I set the timing on my electronic distributor?
Turn the ignition key to the RUN position and return to the distributor. Turn the distributor body COUNTERCLOCKWISE until the test lamp turns OFF. Turn the distributor another 10 to 20 degrees COUNTERCLOCKWISE. Now SLOWLY turn the distributor body CLOCKWISE… SLOWLY.
What is improper ignition timing?
Improper ignition timing can cause several engine problems such as knocking or pinging, hard starting, overheating, increased fuel consumption and reduced power output. Knocking or Pinging. This is one of the common symptoms in an engine. Knocking occurs when the ignition timing is set before the ideal advance timing.
What happens if your distributor timing is off?
Ignition timing refers to the method of setting the time the spark plug sparks, or ignites, during the piston compression stroke. Improperly set ignition timing can negatively impact engine performance.
What should ignition timing be at idle?
Idle/staging is typically 55 degrees to ignite the cylinders with a rich idle mixture. Launch typically 50-53 degrees adjusted for an optimum power at launch. Bring the timing back to typically 50-57 degrees for the remainder of the run to restore power.
Can timing cause hard start?
Hard Starting If ignition timing is incorrect and causes the spark plugs to fire too soon or too late, the fuel-and-air mixture will not be ignited at the proper time which will cause the engine to become difficult to start.
What are the signs of a bad distributor?
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Distributor Rotor and Cap
- Engine misfires. Engine misfires can occur for a number of reasons.
- Car doesn’t start.
- Check Engine Light comes on.
- Excessive or unusual engine noises.
Will a car start if timing is off?
Engine Won’t Start: If the engine timing belt has broken, it won’t be able to start. You may hear it “engage” as it is trying to start as you turn the key, but because the engine timing belt is what operates the camshaft and crank that turns the engine, it isn’t able to start.
Will engine start if timing is off?
Will your car start if the timing is off? Just like your heart, if the engine jumps time, it will run poorly or fail. If a timing belt fails, your car will not start. It may fail while driving and cause the engine to stall or you may be suddenly surprised when your vehicle just won’t start.
What happens if ignition timing is too advanced?
Advancing the timing means the plug fires earlier in the compression stroke (farther from TDC). Advance is required because the air/fuel mixture does not burn instantly. It takes time for the flame to ignite the all the mixture. However, if the timing is advanced too far, it will cause an Engine Knock.
Does timing effect idle?
Does timing affect idle speed? – Quora. Yes. In the case of both valve timing and distributer timing (in older cars with a spark distributer) changing the timing will affect the idle speed at the same throttle setting, because it will affect the efficiency of the engine at that throttle setting.