2.9 Timing, or some other issue.

[chris78]

I'm having trouble setting timing, I think. I removed the distributor to replace pickup coil and marked it, but unfortunately it was already loose and my marks probably are not exact. I did get it to start but it idled really high so I decided to adjust timing. The problem is even after adjusting the timing its so hard to start. Once started it seems to run ok, while I adjust timing.

I do so by pulling the plug on the two wires leaving the distributor tfi plug. I guess they call it the spout plug. With a timing light I can see the line with TC around it, then the dash marks with numbers 12, 20, 27, etc.. etc.. I set it to the mark between tc and 12, but no dice, still hard to start once I replace the spout plug. Am I setting it wrong? could it be that i'm setting it after TC instead of before? What would happen if I put the distributor in off one tooth from where it was suppose to be?

 

[IIBRONCOS]

Start with getting the #1 piston at TDC on the compression stroke. Pull the #1 cylinder spark plug out, it is the front passenger side plug. Put a socket wrench on the crankshaft bolt and turn it clockwise while holding your finger over the plug hole. You will feel and hear the compression pushing your finger out of the hole. Next line your marks on your crankshaft pulley to the timing pointer at zero TDC. Your rotor should be pointing right at the #1 plug wire connector on your distributor cap.

 

[chris78]

So I checked that it was top dead center compression stroke on #1, turned the distributor so it was pointing to number one, it was between 1 and 4 otherwise. It started up with out the plug in. After it warmed I turned it off, hooked my light on it, and it refuses to start. It doesn't even catch. This is the trouble i've been having so I'm not sure what to do. If I let it cool down it seems to start right up. When I had it running it was a mark or so before TC, but well after 12. Any ideas?

 

[RayInStl]

Just to rule out fuel problems, the next time it won't start, spray some starter fluid in the intake and see if it starts up. Otherwise, I'm thinking weak spark.

 

[chris78]

I can try but heres the thing, it starts fine cold. When the engine warms up and I turn it off. It won't start back up. no kick or anything. I replaced my icm, and coil pickup early, so i've had the distributor out. Thats why i need to set timing. Other wise it started fine before.

Right now its set to one mark before TC. Prior to this I had it set to one mark after 12. Which I think is 10 degrees before tc. I don't know though, it still doesn't start eitherway when its warm.

 

[AndyB.]

Each long line is four degrees, each short line is two degrees. One short line from 12, towards TDC, is 10 degrees.

 

[chris78]

Thanks, wasn't sure about those marks. I was able to get it worked out.