Firing order question

[rangerboy1986]

I have a 86 ranger with a 2.3 and an 88 ranger with a 2.3.. both are the 4 plug lima motors.. The firing order on the 88 is 4-2-1-3 and on the 86 its 1-3-4-2
The 88 runs a little rough at idle but once you drive it its smooth, no misfiring or backfiring or smoking and it has plenty of power.. and the 86 runs great at idle and driving.

Anyone know if the timing on the 88 could be off causing it to idle rough?
Also when i unhook the alternator on the 88 it idles higher and i cant seem to figure out why.
I just bought the 88 and im trying to get it road worthy but i keep running into odd situations with it.

 

[Mark_88]

All 2.3 Lima engines had had the same firing order...1-3-4-2...if the 88 is running on what you described try swapping the plugs on the dizzy to reflect the above order...it's possible the engine will run and maybe even perform as you have it...but I think it would be like having the timing off by a few degrees.

My 88 is set up the way the Haynes manual reads...as above...and I've had it wrong a few times and could barely drive it...

 

[rangerboy1986]

Alright, i looked on google and found 3 different firing orders so i wasn't sure if they were all the same on all 2.3 motors or if they changed from year to year

 

[kimcrwbr1]

http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/4cylinders.shtml
The tech library has loads of info.

 

[kimcrwbr1]

I`m thinking you need to check the position of the rotor on the 88. You have the 86 to compare it to will make it easier. Find the compression stroke on the number one cylinder and then line the timing mark up to TDC on both engines. The easiest way is to pull number one plug and stick you finger in the hole as you turn the crank with a wrench until you feel compression then line up the mark with the pointer TDC. Pull the distributor cap and see where the rotor is pointing it should be at the #1 tower on the cap. GL