FixVault

Ignition Timing

  1. Engine must be at operating temperature. Connect timing light to engine. Connect tachometer to negative terminal of coil, engine check connector, or remove rubber cap and connect probe to service connector on distributor (if equipped). See Fig 3 and Fig 4 .
    CAUTION: Some tachometers may not be compatible with ignition system. Consult tachometer manufacturer before connecting tach to system. Do not allow tachometer terminal to become grounded. This can damage igniter and/or coil.
  2. Adjust idle speed to specifications. Install jumper wire across terminals of engine check connector (if equipped). See Fig 1 and Fig 2 .
  3. On Tercel and RWD Corolla, disconnect and plug inboard distributor vacuum hose only. On all other models, disconnect and plug both distributor vacuum hoses. Adjust timing by turning distributor.
Fig 1: FWD Corolla EFI (FX16) Ignition Timing Adjustment
G61205Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
Fig 2: RWD Corolla EFI (GT-S) Ignition Timing Adjustment
G61171Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
IGNITION TIMING (DEGREES BTDC @ RPM)

Application Timing: Vac. Plugged Timing: Vac. Connected
Corolla (EFI) 10 @ 800 (1) N/A
Corolla (Carb.) 5 @ 950 13 @ 950
Tercel 5 @ 950 13 @ 950
(1) With engine check connector shorted.
Fig 3: Corolla/Tercel Tach Hook-Up/Idle Speed & Timing Adjust
G61175Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
Fig 4: Corolla (EFI) Tach Hook-Up/Idle Speed & Timing Adjust
G61174Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
Fig 5: Ignition Timing Marks
G46452Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002