Ignition Timing

CAUTION: Some tachometers may not be compatible with ignition system. Consult tachometer manufacturer before connecting tachometer to ignition system. To avoid possible damage to ignitor and/or coil, DO NOT allow tachometer terminal to become grounded.

Warm engine to normal operating temperature. Shut engine off. Connect timing light to spark plug wire on cylinder No. 1. Connect tachometer to proper terminals of data link connector No. 1, located in engine compartment. See Fig 1.
Install Jumper Wire (SST 09843-18020) between terminals TE1 and E1 of data link connector No. 1. See Fig 2.

Apply parking brake. Place transaxle in Neutral. Start engine and maintain engine at specified RPM for 5 seconds and then ensure engine returns to idle. See ENGINE RPM SPECIFICATIONS table.

ENGINE RPM SPECIFICATIONS

Application	Engine RPM
Corolla	1000-1500

NOTE: Timing marks are located on front cover.

Ensure base timing is within specification at idle with transaxle in Neutral, electric cooling fan (if equipped) off, A/C and all accessories off. See the 4-CYLINDER IGNITION TIMING table.
If ignition timing is incorrect, loosen distributor hold-down bolt or nut. Adjust ignition timing by rotating distributor. Tighten distributor hold-down bolt or nut.
Remove jumper wire from data link connector No. 1. Ensure advance timing is within specification. See 4-CYLINDER IGNITION TIMING table. Remove tachometer and timing light.

4-CYLINDER IGNITION TIMING (Degrees BTDC @ Idle)

Application ⁽¹⁾

⁽²⁾ Base Timing

⁽³⁾ Advance Timing

1.8L (7A-FE)

8-12

⁽⁴⁾

⁽¹⁾	Check with engine at normal operating temperature, transmission/transaxle in Neutral, parking brake applied, electric cooling fan off (if equipped) and A/C and all accessories off.

⁽²⁾	With jumper wire installed between terminals TE1 and E1 on data link connector No. 1.

⁽³⁾	With jumper wire removed from DLC No. 1.

⁽⁴⁾	Information not available at time of publication.

Fig 1: Connecting Tachometer Or Scan Tester

Fig 2: Installing Jumper Wire Between DLC No. 1 Terminals