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i removed the distb and during installing an intake gasket( 1988 ranger 2.9) , i set the engine on tdc and reinstalled distb. i cranked once but it ran real ruff, i moved the distb and now it will not crank. could someone explain the step-by-step deatils of what i may to solve this problem. what is the correct way to set the timming?
thanks:
ted
Any decent manual should have the basic procedure for setting the timing. Just be sure to unplug the SPOUT connector. Other than that, it's basically like any other distributor ignition. Loosen the hold down bolt, turn the distributor until the timing is at specification (10° BTDC) then tighten the hold down bolt. If you don't have a print manual, try the vehicle repair guides at www.autozone.com
What do you mean by it won't crank? It won't turn over or won't start? If it won't turn over, there are other problems. If it won't start, but did before, it is most likely the timing or ignition. Are you sure the plug wires are not crossed up? That's usually the most common problem when changing the distributor. And make sure when you find TDC it is on the compression stroke. The timing marks can also be TDC on the exhaust stroke. Just some thoughts. Keep us posted.
Any decent manual should have the basic procedure for setting the timing. Just be sure to unplug the SPOUT connector. Other than that, it's basically like any other distributor ignition. Loosen the hold down bolt, turn the distributor until the timing is at specification (10° BTDC) then tighten the hold down bolt. If you don't have a print manual, try the vehicle repair guides at www.autozone.com
If the SPOUT conn. is the one that connects the module, i did that at the very beginning and it would not run. I plugged it up, it started, ran real ruff, so i moved the distb. (without removing the connector), and it will not run. I have moved it in both directions. Should i start over at TDC and verify wire # 1.
will the engine run without the module connector plugged up?
This is a new experience for me working on Fords, i am a devout GM and Chrysler person,
The main connector at the ignition module needs to stay connected. The SPOUT connector is a shorting bar across a yellow/green wire, usually hanging over or near the passenger valve cover. For education's sake, the SPOUT (short for SPark OUTput) is a connection between the computer and the ignitions module that is used by the computer to control timing advance. In order to set the base timing correctly, it must be disconnected to block the computer's timing advance.
If you think you may have gotten TDC 360° off, then it would be worth the time to verify it. However, the fact that you got it to start and that it ran (all be it roughly) indicates that you were at least close. More importantly, you might verify that you've got the correct firing order, and that you've got the spark plug wires going to the correct cylinders.
firing order: 1-4-2-5-3-6 distributor rotation: clockwise
cylinder's numbered: passenger side starting at front and going back: 1 2 3
driver's side starting at front and going back: 4 5 6.
Last edited by mrshorty; Apr 28, 2004 at 10:53 AM.
Reason: add more info