Look at this: http://autorepair.about.com/library/firing_orders/bl-fo-5830.htm
Put the #1 piston at TDC. Pull the Distributor cap off (2 clips). Mark the position of the rotor relative to the distributor. Remove the timing adjusting nut located to the rear of the engine just behind the distributor. Pull it out (it twists as it comes out). DO NOT move the Veh or turn the engine over, as this will make correct timing that much harder. Instalation is the reverse procedure. Adjust timing with timing light.
There is a problem in the distributor. Either the pickup coil or the ignition module are defective. It may be cheaper to purchase a remanufactured distributor.
if you are talking bout engine timing, you also have to make sure distributer cam is inserted correctly for the timing the timing marks are only for setting up,initially. the rest is done with a timing light and movememt of the distributor
with a timing light, assuming this is an older engine that still uses a distributor.
each engine is different but give it to a mechanic and let him set it to somewhere around 32 - 34deg total timing. This will take the vacuum of the engine into play as well. If you don't want to spend the money take the vacuum off the carb and set to 4-6 deg on your timing cover. This will be pretty close to the same setting. If you have difficulty starting turn counter clockwise just a hair and you should be ok.
To set the timing on a Toyota 22R engine find the distributor. The engine will have marks at which the distributor can be set. The OEM setting for a 22R engine is 5 degrees.
0 TDC / Top dead center.
the timing shoujld be 8 degrees BTDC. If your engine has a vacume advance hose running to the distributor than you will have to remove it from the distributor and seal it off before setting the timing.
If you are setting the timing with a timing light then it don't matter where the rotor is pointing. But if you are putting the Distributor in then yes. When it is in, It must be pointing to #1 on cap so vaccume advance don't hit the thermostat housing when you adjust the timing with a light.
The distributor is set at 0 deg and the computer does all the advancing. You set the crank at 0 and line the rotor up with the line in the pickup plate then using a scan tool you sync the distributor to zero degrees. It can not be done with a timing light.
first i assume you have a timing light? if so you slightly loosen the 14mm (on most) bolt at the bottom of your distributor that holds it down and using the timing light point to the indicator marks on the harmonic balancer, then turn the distributor to the recommended factory setting, ( which i would need more info to tell you what it should be) new answer first you bring the vehicle to normal operating temp shut engine off disconnect the timing connector loosen the distributor bolt hook up timing light turn engine on set timing to zero shut engine off disconnect batery hook the connector back connect batery
A 1979 Chevrolet pickup does not have a timing belt, it has a timing chain. The chain will last the life of the engine and is normally replaced during an engine overhaul.
A 1983 engine doesn't have points, but if you have changed to a points distributor use the same timing settings that were used with the original distributor. if you can time an engine with a hei dist. it's the same way with points. you have to use a timing light, and turn the dist. to retard ,or advance the timing. If the engine has been fitted with a GM type distributor there should be an access door to the side of the distributor cap. Use a "dwell tach" (with the engine running) to set the dwell, then use the timing light to set the timing. If it's not a HEI ignition then it's safe to assume that it's not EFI either so you'll set the timing by loosening the retaining bolt at the base of the distributor, then turn the distributor to align the timing mark with the amount of advance indicated for your altitude. The timing light will cause the mark to appear that the dampener pulley has stopped and you will be able to move the mark as you turn the distributor. NOTE! When setting the timing always remember to disconnect the vacuum line.
First place there is no need to set the timing if the distributor has not been moved. And there is no wire to unhook.The ignition timing is controled by the ECM / engine control module. If the timing is off you will have a check engine light on. If the light is not on, then the timing is correct. No need to bother, The computer is taking care of it.You have to have a OBD II engine scanner to set the timing.
The timing on a 1999 Honda Civic can be adjusted setting the distributor to the correct angle. Setting the distributor forward to much will mess with original settings of the ignition.
1986 should be carburatored and it is not required. That would only apply to a fuel injected engine.
Sounds like your timing chain might have jumped a notch. Timing is set by rotating the distributor. There is a nut underneath the distributor that locks it down. Timing mark is on the harmonic balancer, sorry I don't have the setting handy. I would start by checking the timing with a timing light. VBdenny