check engine CHEVROLET DYNASTY 1993 Owner's Guide

AG AND AJ BODIES INDEX
page page
Ambient Temperature Sensor Removal ......... 20
Compass Calibration ...................... 16
Compass Diagnostics ...................... 18
Compass Module Replacement .............. 20
Demagnetizing Procedure .................. 17
Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) ..... 13
Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) Removal .............................. 20 Engine Compartment Node (ECN)
............ 15
Engine Compartment Node Compass Calibration . 16
Engine Node Sensor Removal ............... 20
Map Reading Lamps ...................... 13
Overhead Console Replacement ............. 20
Thermometer and Compass ................. 16
Variance Procedure ....................... 17
MAP READING LAMPS
The map lamps are actuated by pressing on the lens.
These same lamps also serve as courtesy lamps when-
ever a door is opened. The illuminated entry system is
activated, or the headlamp switch is turned fully
clockwise (Fig. 1).
LAMP REPLACEMENT
(1) Remove lens by inserting a screw driver or knife
blade into slot located along-side of lens. Once screw-
driver is inserted pry lens to the side and swing down
as it unhooks from housing edge. (2) Remove lamp by pulling straight down.
(3) Install new lamp by pushing firmly into recep-
tacle. (4) Snap lens into position taking care to orient the
tabs on the lens with the slots in the housing.
LAMP TEST
(1) Close vehicle doors.
(2) Press each lamp switch. Right hand switch
should light passenger lamp and left hand switch
should light drivers lamp. (3) If either of the lamps fail to illuminate, open
vehicle doors. (a) If lamp does not illuminate check for a burned
out lamp. (b) If lamp illuminates when doors are open check
switch and wiring.
ELECTRONIC VEHICLE INFORMATION CENTER
(EVIC)
The Electronic Vehicle Information Center is a com-
puter controlled warning system which, monitors vari-
ous sensors used on the vehicle. The system supple-
ments the warning indicators in the instrument
cluster. Visual warning messages are displayed by a
digital display (Fig. 2).
When a warning message has been activated, a tone
will sound to attract the driver's attention. The warn-
ing message will then be displayed on the EVIC center
until the condition is corrected or a new display func-
tion is called up. A tone will announce each new
warning condition. For complete diagnostic procedures for the EVIC
systems, refer to the Body-Chassis Diagnostic Test
Procedures Manual. The EVIC has a 24 function system that provides the
driver with visual messages when a warning con-
Fig. 1 Overhead Console Lamp Replacement
Fig. 2 EVIC
Ä OVERHEAD CONSOLE 8C - 13

VISUAL MESSAGES
Following are the visual messages and the condi-
tions under which, the messages will be given:
² Keys in ignition
² Exterior lamps on
These messages will appear if the conditions are
present and the driver's door is open while the igni-
tion switch is in the OFF, LOCK, or ACC positions.
A tone will sound until the condition is corrected or
the door is closed.
² Passenger door ajar
² Driver door ajar
² Trunk ajar
² Park brake engaged
² Right rear door ajar
² Left rear door ajar
These messages will appear if a condition is de-
tected after the vehicle is in motion. When the con-
dition is corrected, a short tone will sound to
acknowledge the action. LOW OIL PRESSURE
If this message is displayed while the vehicle is at
cruising speeds, immediate attention is required. If
this message appears at idle speed, increase the idle
speed and the message should go off. If the message
remains on, immediate attention is required. ENGINE TEMP CRITICAL
This message appears when a sensor has deter-
mined that the engine coolant is overheating. If this
message comes on and stays on, immediate action is
required. COOLANT LEVEL LOW
LOW FUEL LEVEL
LOW BRAKE FLUID WASHER FLUID LOW
These messages will appear if a continuous warn-
ing condition is detected while the engine is running.
Inspection is required. To clear this message from
the display, after the condition is corrected, the igni-
tion switch must be turned OFF. CHECK TRANS
This message will appear if a continuous warning
condition is detected while the engine is running. Im-
mediate attention is recommended. To clear this mes-
sage from the display, after the condition has been
corrected, the ignition switch must be turned OFF. VOLTAGE IMPROPER
This message will appear if a continuous warning
condition is detected. Immediate attention is re-
quired. To clear this message from the display, after
the condition has been corrected, the ignition switch
must be turned OFF. TURN SIGNAL ON
This message will appear if the turn signal is left
on while vehicle speed is over 15 mph and the vehi-
cle has traveled over one-half mile. FASTEN SEAT BELTS
An intermittent chime tone will sound for several
seconds if the seat belt is not fastened. CHK ENGINE OIL LEVEL
If this message is delivered, a check of the engine
oil dipstick is suggested. To clear this message, after
the condition is corrected, the ignition switch must
be turned OFF. HEADLAMP OUT
BRAKE LAMP OUT
TAIL LAMP OUT
These conditions are monitored only when the
lamps are on. The message will remain, even after
the lamp is replaced, until the lamp is turned on and
operates. SERVICE REMINDER
The maintenance reminder statement is pro-
grammed to provide general information only. Refer
to Group 0, Lubrication & Maintenance for specific
vehicle requirements. The service reminder message is displayed at 7,500
miles or 12 months intervals, which ever comes first. MONITORED SYSTEMS OK
If there is no warning condition to report, the mes-
sage Monitored Systems OK is displayed (Fig. 3).
ENGINE COMPARTMENT NODE (ECN)
The Engine Compartment Node is a microcomputer
controlled unit which, informs the Electronic Vehicle
Information Center (EVIC) via the CCD bus of:
² Outside temperature
² Compass direction
and the following warning messages:
² Low Brake Fluid
² Low Coolant Level
² Low Engine Oil Level
Fig. 3 EVIC Messages and Sensors
Ä OVERHEAD CONSOLE 8C - 15

AP BODY INDEX
page page
Ambient Temperature Sensor Removal ........ 25
Compass Calibration ...................... 21
Compass Diagnostics ..................... 23
Compass Module Replacement .............. 25
Demagnetizing Procedure .................. 22 Map Reading Lamps Operation
.............. 21
Overhead Console Replacement ............. 25
Thermometer and Compass ................ 21
Variance Procedure ....................... 22
MAP READING LAMPS OPERATION
The map lamps are actuated by pressing on the
lens (Fig. 1).
LAMP REPLACEMENT
(1) Remove lens by inserting a screw driver or
knife blade into slot located along-side of lens. Once
screwdriver is inserted pry lens to the side and swing
down as it unhooks from housing edge. (2) Remove lamp by pulling straight down.
(3) Install new lamp by pushing firmly into recep-
tacle. (4) Snap lens into position taking care to orient
the tabs on the lens with the slots in the housing.
MAP LAMP TEST
(1) Press each lamp switch. Right hand switch
should light passenger lamp and left hand switch
should light drivers lamp. (2) If lamp does not illuminate check for a burned
out lamp, voltage, defective switch or faulty wiring.
THERMOMETER AND COMPASS
The ignition switch must be in the ON or ACCES-
SORY position before the temperature and compass
reading can be displayed. The Comp/Temp switch
turns the compass display on and off. The US/Metric
switch changes the temperature reading from Fahr-
enheit to Celsius (Fig. 2). When the vehicle is standing still, engine compart-
ment temperatures may be radiated to the tempera-
ture sensor. Therefore the most accurate ambient
temperature readings are displayed when the vehicle
is moving in a forward motion. When the ignition switch is in the ON position the
temperature display is updated every 5 minutes.
When the ignition switch is turned off the last dis-
played temperature reading stays in memory. When
the ignition switch is turned on again the thermom-
eter will display the memory temperature for 1
minute; then update the display to the actual tem-
perature within 5 minutes.
COMPASS CALIBRATION
Do not attempt to set the compass near large metal
objects, such as, other vehicles, large buildings, or
bridges. The compass unit automatically calibrates itself as
the vehicle is driven; therefore, no calibration should
be required. When the compass is first powered up,
the CAL light on the display should be on. The CAL
light will go off and the compass will be accurate af-
ter the vehicle completes one to three complete cir-
cles. If the vehicle's compass headings are inaccurate,
the compass also can be manually calibrated using
the following procedures: (1) Depress and hold down both the Comp/Temp
button and the U.S./Metric button. (2) The display will go off and after 5 seconds the
VAR light will come on. Continue to hold both but-
tons down. (3) In approximately 10 seconds, the CAL light
will come on. Release both buttons and the display
will show the heading and outside temperature. (4) Drive the vehicle 1 to 3 complete circles, with-
out turning ignition OFF. The CAL light will then
go off, showing the compass is calibrated.
Fig. 1 Overhead Console Lamp Replacement
Ä OVERHEAD CONSOLE 8C - 21

IGNITION SYSTEMS
CONTENTS
page page
2.2L TBI, 2.5L TBI, 2.5L MPI AND 3.0L IGNITION SYSTEMSÐDIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES
..... 11
2.2L TBI, 2.5L TBI, 2.5L MPI AND 3.0L IGNI- TION SYSTEMSÐSERVICE PROCEDURES . 14
2.2L TBI, 2.5L TBI, 2.5L MPI AND 3.0L IGNI- TION SYSTEMSÐSYSTEM OPERATION .... 1
2.2L TURBO III, 3.3L AND 3.8L IGNITION SYSTEMÐDIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES
.... 35
2.2L TURBO III, 3.3L AND 3.8L IGNITION SYSTEMÐSYSTEM OPERATION ......... 24
2.2L TURBO III, 3.3L AND 3.8L IGNITION SYSTEMSÐSERVICE PROCEDURES ...... 39
IGNITION SWITCH ...................... 45
SPECIFICATIONS ....................... 47
GENERAL INFORMATION
Throughout this group, references are made to par-
ticular vehicles by letter designation. A chart ex-
plaining the designations appears in the Introduction
Section of this manual.
2.2L TBI, 2.5L TBI, 2.5L MPI AND 3.0L IGNITION SYSTEMSÐSYSTEM OPERATION
INDEX
page page
Auto Shutdown (ASD) Relay and Fuel Pump Relay . 8
Coolant Temperature Sensor ................. 7
Distributor Cap ........................... 1
Distributor Pick-UpÐ3.0L Engine .............. 7
Distributor Pick-UpÐPCM Input ............... 6
General Information ........................ 1 Ignition Coil
.............................. 9
Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor ...... 8
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) ............. 6
Rotor .................................. 2
Spark Plug Cables ........................ 2
Spark Plugs ............................. 3
GENERAL INFORMATION
This section describes the ignition systems of the
2.2L TBI, 2.5L TBI, 2.5L MPI (flexible fuel AA-body)
and 3.0L engines. The Fuel Injection sections of Group 14 explain On
Board Diagnostics. Group 0, Lubrication and Maintenance, contains
general maintenance information for ignition related
items. The Owner's Manual also contains mainte-
nance information.
DISTRIBUTOR CAP
Remove the distributor cap and inspect the inside
for flash over, cracking of carbon button, lack of
spring tension on carbon button, cracking of cap, and
burned, worn terminals (Fig. 1). Also check for bro-
ken distributor cap towers. If any of these conditions
are present the distributor cap and/or cables should
be replaced. When replacing the distributor cap, transfer cables
from the original cap to the new cap one at a time.
Ensure each cable is installed into the corresponding tower of the new cap. Fully seat the wires into the
towers. If necessary, refer to the appropriate engine
firing order diagram (Fig. 2 or Fig. 3).
Fig. 1 Distributor Cap Inspection
Ä
IGNITION SYSTEMS 8D - 1

Light scaling of the terminals can be cleaned with
a sharp knife. If the terminals are heavily scaled, re-
place the distributor cap. A cap that is greasy, dirty or has a powder-like
substance on the inside should be cleaned with a so-
lution of warm water and a mild detergent. Scrub
the cap with a soft brush. Thoroughly rinse the cap
and dry it with a clean soft cloth.
ROTOR
Replace the rotor if it is cracked, the tip is exces-
sively burned or heavily scaled (Fig. 4). If the spring
terminal does not have adequate tension, replace the
rotor.
SPARK PLUG CABLES
Spark Plug cables are sometimes referred to as sec-
ondary ignition wires. They transfer electrical cur-
rent from the distributor to individual spark plugs at
each cylinder. 2.2L TBI, 2.5L TBI, 2.5L MPI, Turbo
III and 3.0L engines use resistance type cables. The
cables suppress radio frequency emissions from the
ignition system. Check the spark plug cable connections for good
contact at the coil and distributor cap towers and at
the spark plugs. Terminals should be fully seated.
The nipples and spark plug covers should be in good condition. Nipples should fit tightly on the coil and
distributor cap towers and spark plug cover should fit
tight around spark plug insulators. Loose cable connec-
tions can cause ignition malfunctions by permitting
water to enter the towers, corroding, and increasing
resistance. To maintain proper sealing at the ter-
minal connections, the connections should not
be broken unless testing indicates high resis-
tance, an open circuit or other damage.
CAUTION: Do not pull spark plug cables from dis-
tributor cap of four cylinder engines. The cables must
be released from inside the distributor cap (Fig. 5).
Clean high tension cables with a cloth moistened
with a non-flammable solvent and wipe dry. Check for
brittle or cracked insulation.
Fig. 2 Engine Firing OrderÐ2.2L TBI, 2.5L TBI, 2.5L MPI and Turbo III Engines
Fig. 3 Engine Firing OrderÐ3.0L Engine
Fig. 4 Rotor InspectionÐTypical
Fig. 5 Spark Plug Cable Removal/InstallationÐ2.2L and 2.5L TBI Engines
8D - 2 IGNITION SYSTEMS Ä

When testing secondary cables for punctures and
cracks with an oscilloscope follow the equipment
manufacturers instructions. If an oscilloscope is not available, secondary cables
can be tested as follows:
CAUTION: Do not leave any one spark plug cable
disconnected any longer than necessary during test-
ing. Excessive heat could damage the catalytic con-
verter. Total test time must not exceed ten minutes.
(a) With the engine not running, connect one end
of a test probe to a good ground. Use a probe made of
insulated wire with insulated alligator clips on each
end. (b) With engine running, move test probe along
entire length of all cables (approximately 0 to 1/8
inch gap). If punctures or cracks are present there
will be a noticeable spark jump from the faulty area
to the probe. Check the coil cable the same way.
Replace cracked, leaking or faulty cables.
When replacing cables, install the new high
tension cable and nipple assembly over cap or
coil tower. When entering the terminal into the
tower, push lightly, then pinch the large diam-
eter of nipple to release air trapped between the
nipple and tower. Continue pushing on the cable
and nipple until cables are properly seated in the
cap towers. A snap should be heard as terminal
goes into place. Use the same procedure to install cable in coil tower.
Wipe the spark plug insulator clean before reinstalling
cable and cover. Use the following procedure when removing the high
tension cable from the spark plug. First, remove the
cable from the retaining bracket. Then grasp the ter-
minal as close as possible to the spark plug. Rotate the
cover and pull the cable straight back. Pulling on the
cable itself will damage the conductor and termi-
nal connection. Do not use pliers and do not pull
the cable at an angle. Doing so will damage the
insulation, cable terminal or the spark plug in-
sulator. Wipe spark plug insulator clean before
reinstalling cable and cover. Resistance type cable is identified by the words
Electronic Suppression printed on the cable jacket.
Use an ohmmeter to check resistance type cable for
open circuits, loose terminals or high resistance as
follows: (a) Remove cable from spark plug.
(b) Lift distributor cap from distributor with
cables intact. Do not remove cables from cap. The
cables must be removed from the spark plugs. (c) Connect the ohmmeter between spark plug end
terminal and the corresponding electrode inside the
cap, make sure ohmmeter probes are in good contact.
Resistance should be within tolerance shown in the cable resistance chart. If resistance is
not within tolerance, remove cable at cap tower
and check the cable. If resistance is still not within
tolerance, replace cable assembly. Test all spark
plug cables in same manner.
To test coil to distributor cap high tension cable,
remove distributor cap with the cable intact. Do not
remove cable from the cap. Connect the ohmmeter
between center contact in the cap and remove the ca-
ble at coil tower and check cable resistance. If resis-
tance is not within tolerance, replace the cable.
SPARK PLUGS
Resistor spark plugs are used in all engines and
have resistance values of 6,000 to 20,000 ohms when
checked with at least a 1000 volt tester. Remove the spark plugs and examine them for
burned electrodes and fouled, cracked or broken por-
celain insulators. Keep plugs arranged in the order
in which they were removed from the engine. An iso-
lated plug displaying an abnormal condition indi-
cates that a problem exists in the corresponding
cylinder. Replace spark plugs at the intervals recom-
mended in Group O. Undamaged low milage spark plugs can be cleaned
and reused. Refer to the Spark Plug Condition sec-
tion of this group. After cleaning, file the center elec-
trode flat with a small point file or jewelers file.
Adjust the gap between the electrodes (Fig. 6) to the
dimensions specified in the chart at the end of this
section. Always tighten spark plugs to the specified torque.
Over tightening can cause distortion and change
spark plug gap. Tighten spark plugs to 28 N Im (20 ft.
lbs.) torque.
SPARK PLUG CONDITION
NORMAL OPERATING CONDITIONS
The few deposits present will be probably light tan
or slightly gray in color with most grades of commer-
cial gasoline (Fig. 7). There will not be evidence of
electrode burning. Gap growth will not average more
than approximately 0.025 mm (.001 in) per 1600 km
(1000 miles) of operation. Spark plugs that have nor-
mal wear can usually be cleaned, have the electrodes
filed and regapped, and then reinstalled. Some fuel refiners in several areas of the United
States have introduced a manganese additive (MMT)
CABLE RESISTANCE CHART
Ä IGNITION SYSTEMS 8D - 3

ing, detonation and cooling system malfunctions also
can cause spark plug overheating.
SPARK PLUG SERVICE
When replacing the spark plug and coil cables,
route the cables correctly and secure them in the ap-
propriate retainers. Failure to route the cables prop-
erly can cause the radio to reproduce ignition noise,
cross ignition of the spark plugs or short circuit the
cables to ground.
SPARK PLUG REMOVAL
Always remove the spark plug cable by grasping at
the spark plug boot turning, the boot 1/2 turn and
pulling straight back in a steady motion. (1) Prior to removing the spark plug spray com-
pressed air around the spark plug hole and the area
around the spark plug. (2) Remove the spark plug using a quality socket
with a rubber or foam insert. (3) Inspect the spark plug condition. Refer to
Spark Plug Condition in this section.
SPARK PLUG GAP ADJUSTMENT Check the spark plug gap with a gap gauge. If the
gap is not correct, adjust it by bending the ground
electrode (Fig. 6).
SPARK PLUG INSTALLATION (1) To avoid cross threading, start the spark plug
into the cylinder head by hand. (2) Tighten spark plugs to 28 N Im (20 ft. lbs.)
torque. (3) Install spark plug cables over spark plugs.
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM)
The ignition system is regulated by the powertrain
control module (PCM) (Fig. 14). The PCM supplies
battery voltage to the ignition coil through the Auto
Shutdown (ASD) Relay. The PCM also controls the
ground circuit for the ignition coil. By switching the ground path for the coil on and off, the PCM adjusts
ignition timing to meet changing engine operating
conditions.
During the crank-start period the PCM advances
ignition timing a set amount. During engine opera-
tion, the amount of spark advance provided by the
PCM is determined by these input factors:
² coolant temperature
² engine RPM
² available manifold vacuum
The PCM also regulates the fuel injection system.
Refer to the Fuel Injection sections of Group 14.
DISTRIBUTOR PICK-UPÐPCM INPUT
The engine speed input is supplied to the power-
train control module (PCM) by the distributor pick-
up. The distributor pick-up is a Hall Effect device
(Fig. 15 or Fig. 16).
A shutter (sometimes referred to as an interrupter)
is attached to the distributor shaft. The shutter con-
tains four blades, one per engine cylinder. A switch
plate is mounted to the distributor housing above the
shutter. The switch plate contains the distributor
Fig. 14 Powertrain control module (PCM)
Fig. 15 DistributorÐ2.2L and 2.5L TBI Engines
Fig. 13 Spark Plug Overheating
8D - 6 IGNITION SYSTEMS Ä

make sure that the spark plugs are firing. Inspect the
distributor rotor, cap, spark plug cables, and spark
plugs. If they are in proper working order, the ignition
system is not the reason why the engine will not start.
Inspect the fuel system and engine for proper opera-
tion.
FAILURE TO START TESTÐ2.5L TBI AND 3.0L
ENGINES
Before proceeding with this test make sure
Testing For Spark At Coil has been performed.
Failure to do this may lead to unnecessary diag-
nostic time and wrong test results.
WARNING: BE SURE TO APPLY PARKING BRAKE
AND/OR BLOCK WHEELS BEFORE PERFORMING
ANY TEST WITH THE ENGINE RUNNING.
(1) Battery voltage must be at least 12.4 volts to
perform test. (2) Crank the engine for 5 seconds while monitoring
the voltage at the coil positive (+) terminal (Fig. 2 or
Fig. 3). If the voltage remains near zero during the
entire period of cranking, refer to Group 14 for On-
Board Diagnostic checks. Also, refer to the DRBII scan
tool and the appropriate Powertrain Diagnostic Proce-
dures manual. These checks will help diagnose prob-
lems with the PCM and auto shutdown relay. (3) If voltage is at near-battery voltage and drops to
zero after 1-2 seconds of cranking, refer to On-Board
Diagnostic in Group 14. Also, refer to the DRBII scan
tool and the appropriate Powertrain Diagnostic Proce-
dures manual. These tests will help check the distribu-
tor reference pickup circuit to the PCM. (4) If voltage remains at near battery voltage during
the entire 5 seconds, with the key off,remove the
PCM 60-way connector. Check the 60-way connector
for any terminals that are pushed out or loose. (5) Remove the connector to coil (+) and connect a
jumper wire between battery (+) and coil (+). (6) Using the special jumper (Fig. 4), momentarily ground terminal #19 of the 60-way connector (Fig.
5). A spark should be generated when the ground is
removed.
(7) If spark is generated, replace the PCM.
(8) If no spark is seen, use the special jumper to
ground the coil (-) terminal directly. (9) If spark is produced, inspect wiring harness for
an open condition.
Fig. 2 Coil TerminalsÐ2.2L TBI, 2.5L TBI and 2.5L MPI Engines
Fig. 3 Coil TerminalsÐ3.0L Engine
Fig. 4 Special Jumper to Ground Coil Negative
Fig. 1 Checking for Spark
8D - 12 IGNITION SYSTEMS Ä

(10) If no spark is produced, replace the ignition coil.
POOR PERFORMANCE TEST
To prevent unnecessary diagnostic time and
possible incorrect results, the Testing For Spark
At Coil procedure should be performed before
this test.
WARNING: APPLY PARKING BRAKE AND/OR BLOCK
THE WHEELS BEFORE PERFORMING ANY ENGINE
RUNNING TESTS.
Check and adjust basic timing (refer to the specifica-
tion section of this group and see service procedures).
COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR TEST
(1) With key off, disconnect wire connector from
coolant temperature sensor (Fig. 6). (2) Connect one lead of ohmmeter to one terminal of
coolant temperature sensor. (3) Connect the other lead of ohmmeter to remaining
terminal of coolant temperature sensor. The ohmmeter
should read as follows;
² Engine/Sensor at normal operating temperature
around 200ÉF should read approximately 700 to 1,000
ohms.
² Engine/Sensor at room temperature around 70ÉF,
ohmmeter should read approximately 7,000 to 13,000
ohms. Refer to On Board Diagnostics in the General
Diagnosis section of Group 14. Also, refer to the
DRBII scan tool and the appropriate Powertrain
Diagnostic Procedures manual for additional
test procedures.
MANIFOLD ABSOLUTE PRESSURE (MAP) SENSOR
TEST
Refer to the DRB II scan tool and appropriate Pow-
ertrain Diagnostic Procedures manual for further test
procedures.
Fig. 5 60-Way Electrical Connector, Powertrain con- trol module
Fig. 6 Coolant Temperature Sensor Test
Ä IGNITION SYSTEMS 8D - 13

(3) Inspect the spark plug condition. Refer to Spark
Plug Condition in this section.
SPARK PLUG GAP ADJUSTMENT
Check the spark plug gap with a gap gauge. If the
gap is not correct, adjust it by bending the ground
electrode (Fig. 6).
SPARK PLUG INSTALLATION
(1) Start the spark plug into the cylinder head by
hand to avoid cross threading. (2) Tighten spark plugs to 28 N Im (20 ft. lbs.)
torque. (3) Install spark plug cables over spark plugs.
IDLE RPM TESTÐ2.5L AND 3.0L ENGINES
WARNING: APPLY PARKING BRAKE AND/OR BLOCK
WHEELS BEFORE PERFORMING IDLE CHECK OR
ADJUSTMENT, OR ANY TESTS WITH A RUNNING
ENGINE.
Engine idle set rpmshould be recorded when the
vehicle is first brought into shop for testing. This
will assist in diagnosing complaints of engine stalling,
creeping and hard shifting on vehicles equipped with
automatic transaxles. Proceed to the Throttle Body Minimum Airflow pro-
cedures in Group 14.
IGNITION TIMING PROCEDUREÐ2.2L TBI, 2.5L
TBI, 2.5L MPI, AND 3.0L ENGINES
WARNING: APPLY PARKING BRAKE AND/OR BLOCK
WHEELS BEFORE PERFORMING SETTING IGNITION
TIMING OR PERFORMING ANY TEST ON AN OPER-
ATING ENGINE.
Proper ignition timing is required to obtain optimum
engine performance. The distributor must be correctly
indexed to provide correct initial ignition timing. (1) Set the gearshift selector in park or neutral and
apply the parking brake. All lights and accessories
must be off. (2) If using a magnetic timing light, insert the
pickup probe into the open receptacle next to the
timing scale window. If a magnetic timing unit is not
available, use a conventional timing light connected to
the number one cylinder spark plug cable. Do not puncture cables, boots or nipples with
test probes. Always use proper adapters. Punc-
turing the spark plug cables with a probe will
damage the cables. The probe can separate the
conductor and cause high resistance. In addition
breaking the rubber insulation may permit sec-
ondary current to arc to ground. (3) Turn selector switch to the appropriate cylinder
position. (4) Start engine and run until operating tempera-
ture is obtained. (5) With the engine at normal operating tempera-
ture, connect the DRBII scan tool to the data link
connector (diagnostic connector). Access the State Dis-
play screen. Refer to the appropriate Powertrain Diag-
nostics Procedures Manual. If not using the DRBII
scan tool, disconnect the coolant temperature
sensor electrical connector. The electric radiator
fan will operate and the malfunction indicator lamp
(instrument panel Check Engine light) will turn on
after disconnecting the coolant sensor or starting the
DRBII scan tool procedure. (6) Aim Timing Light at timing scale (Fig. 7 or Fig.
8) or read magnetic timing unit. If flash occurs when
timing mark is before specified degree mark, timing is
advanced. To adjust, turn distributor housing in direc-
tion of rotor rotation. If flash occurs when timing mark is after specified
degree mark, timing is retarded. To adjust, turn dis-
tributor housing against direction of rotor rotation.
Refer to Vehicle Emission Control Information label for
correct timing specification. If timing is within 62É of
value specified on the label, proceed to step (8). If
outside specified tolerance, proceed to next step. (7) Loosen distributor hold-down arm screw
enough to rotate the distributor housing (Fig. 9 or
Fig. 6 Setting Spark Plug GapÐTypical
8D - 16 IGNITION SYSTEMS Ä