Too far advanced: Spark knock (also known as preignition), Hard starting, Damage to pistons, and Poor Performance. Overheating and very sluggish performance.
Take it to the dealer
Right side of the engine behind the cam cover.
You can't set it, since there is no distributer. The computer controls it. If you suspect the ignition timing is off, then it could be caused by the computer (ECM) malfunctioning (unlikely) or one of the numerous sensors is faulty and is send the wrong signal to the computer.
No, but faulty water pump or thermostat can.
Not unless they are damaged or faulty.
The timing belt of a vehicle is responsible for linking the activities of the crankshaft and camshaft. A damaged timing belt could be responsible for a faulty engine.
Probably not. But it could be caused by a "pickup coil", rotor, distributor cap, loose connection... lots of other possibilities. I don't see how. Backfiring is usually caused by improper timing. When a coil goes bad it usually just quits.
Symptoms of a faulty ignition control module on a 1992 Ford Aerostar van can include difficulty starting the engine, intermittent stalling, or rough idling. You may also experience poor acceleration and a noticeable drop in engine power. Additionally, the van may exhibit issues with the timing of the spark, leading to misfires or a check engine light activation. If these symptoms occur, it may indicate a need to test or replace the ignition control module.
If there is no trouble while shifting, then the problem most likely is with the ignition sequence. This could be caused by bad gasoline, a bad timing assembly or faulty spark plugs/wires.
Bad points , leaking or fryed coil, shorted wires leading to timing device.
The timing of the symptoms is also important, because it indicates what activities set off the symptoms, such as while reading a book or having the hands placed on the steering wheel.
Check the plug gap / check timing , check jets in carb