Idle, timing...??

[jupp24]

92 Loyale 4WD

 

For the past month or so the tach has been jumping up and down at idle (500 to 1300). Fox said it could be a slack timing belt, but first I replaced disty cap (it was worn and corroded inside) and rotor and for a day the problem was gone; now it's back.

 

Tried to adjust timing, but in that process found out that my idle is supposed to be at 700+/-.

 

My idle has always been at 1100+/-. (i've had the car for a year and a half)

 

What exactly is the process for inspecting and adjusting the timing?

Do I set the idle before or after the timing?

Plus, how do I set the idle? (I can only seem to find the set screw for the throttle right by the intake, and I'm not sure that's it).

 

 

I've searched as thoroughly as I can and previous threads either don't have complete info or they seem to conflict with each other.

[NorthWet]

Help us to help you...

 

92 Loyale, I assume that it is Single Point Fuel Injection (SPFI) rather than carbureted? How about transmission? Manual or automatic?

 

Setting the timing on the SPFI and MPFI engines requires a couple of connectors of be connected... should be a pair of single-wires with green connectors by the wiper motor. This will tell the ECU to quit diddling the timing and hold it at base timing.

 

Idle speed depends on transmission type. Idle adjustment depends on intake type. If you do not have a carb (almost certain), then the idle speed whould not effect the base timing with the green connectors joined.

 

Back to your original problem. An electrical tach bouncing around usually means that there is an erratic electrical signal getting to it, erratic in the sense of voltage fluctuations. I would look first to quality and condition of ignition parts, particularly sparkplugs, wires, rotor and cap. Also, look at coil for general condition and any dirt that might provide a conduction path to ground.

 

You might also check that power grounding points (battery,engine, etc) are in good condition and that your alternator is working properly.

[jxavierf]

I had the same problem which was solved by installing a new disty.....not a problem since.....good luck?

[jupp24]

-Manual transmission (specs under the hood say idle should be 700 for both).

-SPFI

 

Found the connectors and will give it a try, but...

 

Help on setting the idle? It seems pretty rudimentary, but my only clue is a poor drawing in a chiltons. (why couldn't they just take a photo!?)

 

thanks

[jupp24]

Connected the Green connectors, set the timing, now it runs alot better. Jumpy Tach is gone, but car still idles at 1100. Everything seems fine, though...

 

THanks