Ignition Timing

Turn lights and all accessories off. Place transmission in Neutral. Run engine at idle speed until normal operating temperature is reached. Stop engine and connect tachometer and timing light. Start engine and run at curb idle speed. On vehicles with power steering, place steering wheel in straight-ahead position.
On models with dual diaphragm-type distributors, disconnect and plug both hoses. Check timing with electric cooling fan disconnected (if equipped). Adjust ignition timing by loosening distributor hold down nut and rotating distributor. Unplug and reconnect hoses on models with dual diaphragm distributor. Reconnect electric cooling fan (if equipped).

IGNITION TIMING (DEGREES BTDC @ RPM)

Application

Auto. Trans. ⁽¹⁾

⁽¹⁾ Man. Trans.

Colt

1.5L ⁽²⁾

5 @ 750

5 @ 700

1.6L Turbo ⁽³⁾

10 @ 700

Colt Vista ⁽³⁾

5 @ 700

Conquest ⁽³⁾

10 @ 850

Raider ⁽²⁾

7 @ 800

Ram-50 ⁽²⁾

2.0L

5 @ 750

2.6L

7 @ 800

⁽¹⁾	Specifications for ignition timing is plus or minus 2 degrees, curb idle speed is plus or minus 100 RPM. Always check any underhood labels for updated specifications.

⁽²⁾	When checking timing at high altitude, disconnect and plug hose at distributor.

⁽³⁾	When checking timing, turn off engine. Disconnect female connector from ignition timing connector and ground.