Ignition Timing

Start engine and run under no-load condition until cooling fan comes on. Let engine idle. Locate Blue 2-pin service check connector, located below right side of dash at kick panel, and pull it out of its holder. Service check connector contains a Brown wire and Black wire. See Figure and Figure . Install SCS Service Connector (07PAZ-0010100) in Blue 2-pin service check connector. See Fig 1 .

Fig 1: Installing SCS Service Connector (07PAZ-0010100) In Blue 2-Pin Service Check Connector
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Locate 2-pin tachometer test connector at left rear corner of engine compartment and attach tachometer. See Figure and Figure . Check idle speed and adjust as necessary. See IDLE SPEED under IDLE SPEED & MIXTURE. Connect timing light to spark plug wire No. 1. Check base ignition timing. Timing marks are located on timing belt cover and crankshaft pulley. Red mark indicates 12 degrees BTDC on SOHC engines and 16 degrees BTDC on DOHC engines. White mark indicates TDC. See Fig 2 . See IGNITION TIMING (Degrees BTDC @ RPM) table.
Loosen hold-down bolts and rotate distributor to adjust timing. On Civic models, tighten distributor hold-down bolts to 13 ft. lbs. (18 N.m). On Civic Del Sol models, tighten distributor hold-down bolts to 18 ft. lbs. (24 N.m). On all models, recheck timing.

Remove timing light and tachometer. Remove SCS Service Connector from Blue 2-pin service check connector.

IGNITION TIMING (Degrees BTDC @ RPM)

Fig 2: Locating Ignition Timing Marks

Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.