Monday, March 17, 2014
How to Set the Ignition Timing on a Cold Engine
Combustion engines rely on good timing to run their best. Power, fuel efficiency and emissions can be controlled simply by adjusting the ignition timing. Late-model engine technicians will set your timing when the engine is warm but there is another way. Learn how to set ignition timing on a cold engine if you cant get the engine to start and run correctly in the first place.
Instructions
- 1
Turn the engine over using the current ignition setting. Listen to the engine as it tries to start. Confirm that you have enough battery power to start the engine and sufficient fuel entering the engine.
2Locate the distributor. Find the retaining bolt at the base of the distributor where it enters the engine and loosen this retaining bolt so you can turn the distributor by hand clockwise or counterclockwise.
3Turn the distributor counterclockwise 1/2 inch with your hand. Turn the engine over again to start. Feed the engine fuel by continuously pressing and depressing the gas pedal as needed if the engine starts but runs poorly. Remove your foot from the gas pedal to see if it will idle without your help. (Continue to step 5 if the engine starts and idles.)
4Listen to the engine as it tries to start. You will notice a difference in the way the engine is trying to fire. Stop turning the engine over and go back to the distributor. Turn the distributor by hand clockwise 1 inch. This will be the opposite move in timing from the previous counterclockwise adjustment. Adjusting the timing one way or the other will correct timing issues that stop a car from starting. Repeat until you set the timing closely enough to start the engine.
5Adjust timing by hand when the engine is at idle. With the engine running, you will hear the rpm increase and the engine will run smoothly when you move the distributor in the right direction to the correct timing. Go past good timing and the power loss returns and the engine may stall. Set the timing by ear and then tighten the distributor retaining bolt to keep the correct timing adjustment.
