How do you tune ignition timing?
#1
How do you tune ignition timing?
So I had my fed-spec-ypipe-intake-car smog checked in Cali today.
I passed the emissions test and the guy let me slide on the visual inspection because it was a K&N filter.
Anyway. I failed the ignition timing text.
I'm at 18 degrees.
The guy said that it should be around 15 and that new spark plugs may help.
What do you guys think?
I don't know why it's at 18. I don't know how to change it either.
Does the octane level in gas change things? O2 sensors?
Or maybe the relocated tiny intake sensor?
I passed the emissions test and the guy let me slide on the visual inspection because it was a K&N filter.
Anyway. I failed the ignition timing text.
I'm at 18 degrees.
The guy said that it should be around 15 and that new spark plugs may help.
What do you guys think?
I don't know why it's at 18. I don't know how to change it either.
Does the octane level in gas change things? O2 sensors?
Or maybe the relocated tiny intake sensor?
#2
Gas will definitely affect timing. Were you using premium fuel? Using 87 octane may cause timing to be retarded.
What's the other maintenance history (plugs, PCV valve, filters, etc.)?
What's the other maintenance history (plugs, PCV valve, filters, etc.)?
#6
There is no CEL.
Plugs were changed summer of 2003, about 20K ago.
Oil changed about 2 months ago.
Fuel filter... ohh.... I don't think I've ever changed that...
O2 were changed about 60k ago in 2001-ish.
Plugs were changed summer of 2003, about 20K ago.
Oil changed about 2 months ago.
Fuel filter... ohh.... I don't think I've ever changed that...
O2 were changed about 60k ago in 2001-ish.
#7
Originally Posted by DaBombX
There is no CEL.
Plugs were changed summer of 2003, about 20K ago.
Oil changed about 2 months ago.
Fuel filter... ohh.... I don't think I've ever changed that...
O2 were changed about 60k ago in 2001-ish.
Plugs were changed summer of 2003, about 20K ago.
Oil changed about 2 months ago.
Fuel filter... ohh.... I don't think I've ever changed that...
O2 were changed about 60k ago in 2001-ish.
What weight oil/brand do you use? (how many miles ago is 2 months)
What mpg are you getting? (if you know)
#9
NGK Platinums
Castrol GTX 10W-40 with Restore 1800 miles ago
I have no idea what mpg I'm getting. I floor it too often to keep a steady rate. I get about 310ish a tank right at empty line.
Castrol GTX 10W-40 with Restore 1800 miles ago
I have no idea what mpg I'm getting. I floor it too often to keep a steady rate. I get about 310ish a tank right at empty line.
#10
Stop the press.. I just realized that your timing is advanced, not retarded... all the things I mention (fuel, knock sensor) will retard timing... not sure what would cause advanced timing.
#13
Member who somehow became The President of The SE-L Club
iTrader: (19)
Join Date: Jun 2001
Posts: 16,033
Originally Posted by DaBombX
I failed the ignition timing text.
I'm at 18 degrees.
The guy said that it should be around 15 and that new spark plugs may help.
I'm at 18 degrees.
The guy said that it should be around 15 and that new spark plugs may help.
![Crazy](https://maxima.org/forums/images/smilies/crazy.gif)
![BS](https://maxima.org/forums/images/smilies/bs.gif)
Sprak plugs have nothing to do with the timing of their firing.
Timing is not adjustable in 4th gens. If it's out of spec, check the crank shaft position sensors or have the car's ECU serviced/replaced.
Honestly, I think you were given a line of ****, it makes no sense.
#14
Originally Posted by njmaxseltd
How in the world did the guy check your timing?
The process is detailed in the service manual. I doubt any state inspection requires an ignition timing check to pass or has a timing light and specific instructions and specs per/vehicle to accomplish the task. ![BS](https://maxima.org/forums/images/smilies/bs.gif)
Sprak plugs have nothing to do with the timing of their firing.
Timing is not adjustable in 4th gens. If it's out of spec, check the crank shaft position sensors or have the car's ECU serviced/replaced.
Honestly, I think you were given a line of ****, it makes no sense.
![Crazy](https://maxima.org/forums/images/smilies/crazy.gif)
![BS](https://maxima.org/forums/images/smilies/bs.gif)
Sprak plugs have nothing to do with the timing of their firing.
Timing is not adjustable in 4th gens. If it's out of spec, check the crank shaft position sensors or have the car's ECU serviced/replaced.
Honestly, I think you were given a line of ****, it makes no sense.
#16
NJMax said it. How in the world can an inspection station check for timing unless he uses a timing light which is not part of an inspection test. He just blowing smoke b/c he thought you were maybe one of those kids who drives around with a fart can. I say don't worry about it and keep on just keep on.
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