4-Cylinder Ignition Timing

Ensure engine is at operating temperature, all accessories are off and transmission is in Park or Neutral. Set parking brake. Ensure idle speed is correct.
Connect timing light to spark plug wire No. 1. Use jumper wire to connect STI terminal to GROUND terminal at Data Link Connector (DLC). See Fig 1 . Start engine. Check base ignition timing. Yellow timing mark on crankshaft pulley should with pointer on timing belt cover.
If timing mark and pointer are not aligned, loosen distributor hold-down bolt. Adjust timing as necessary. Turn engine off. Remove jumper wire from DLC terminals. Start engine. Ensure advance mechanism is functioning correctly.

Fig 1: Identifying DLC Terminals

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

BASE IGNITION TIMING

Application

Degrees BTDC @ Idle

Aspire

⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾ 10

⁽¹⁾	With STI terminal of DLC grounded.

⁽²⁾	Yellow timing mark on crankshaft pulley should align with pointer on timing belt cover.