I have an '89 automatic with 62k milesand a timing issue. When I try timing the car, I disconnect the "set timing" wire and time it to 6* BTDC. Then when I shut the car down and hook the set timing wire back up, it won't start. Anyone have any ideas?
Now, please forgive me if this is a dumb question, but, on the emission information label, it says to set timing to 6*(DR). Exactly what is DR?
Does this mean to time it while in Driver?
If so, did that and same result.
Just to get the car running, I timed it with the set timing wire engaged. It runs, but "pings" real bad when you punch the gas. Also, doesn't have any power in 1st gear and then kicks in in 2nd.
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

Your ping when you 'pedal down' means plug fire is too far ahead of top dead center.

No power in first, if and only if related to timing, means plug fire is at or after top dead center.

I don't know how you could have such a swing in timing tho'.

Need more clues...


I thought timing was electronically controlled???

 

you must make sure you setting it correctly if your 100% sure of your work i would say your knock sensor is no good[], when you start you car and the knock sensor is hooked up or the set wire (shunt) whathaveyou... it is going to advance the timing for you automaticly but if the knock sensor(which is VERY VERY VERY sensitive) thinks theres knocking it will retard the timing up to 22* if i remember correctly or how ever much it need to before the knock goes away, try to disconnect the knock sensor with the set wire hooked up start it and see what happens, ill bet it starts, also 6* thats a lil hastyadv. are you doing it for perfomance or what???

 

One thing to consider, Chevy's have been known for the outer ring slipping on the balancer. Try retarding timing back to 0, then hook the timing connector back. Also, a bad ignition module could cause start problems in the "connected" or advanced timing mode. Things to consider. [8D]