* A timing light
* A 10mm socket wrench
* A flat-blade screwdriver
* A Phillips-head screwdriver
* A feeler gauge
Step 1: Prepare the engine
- Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
- Remove the air filter housing.
- Remove the distributor cap.
- Remove the spark plugs.
- Turn the engine over by hand until the piston in the number one cylinder is at top dead center (TDC). This can be checked by inserting a wooden dowel or long screwdriver into the spark plug hole of the number one cylinder and turning the engine over until the dowel or screwdriver just stops rising.
- Align the timing marks on the crankshaft pulley and the timing chain cover.
Step 2: Set the timing
- Loosen the distributor hold-down bolt with the 10mm socket wrench.
- Using the flat-blade screwdriver, turn the distributor clockwise or counterclockwise until the timing light flashes when the crankshaft pulley is aligned with the timing mark.
- Tighten the distributor hold-down bolt.
Step 3: Check the timing
- Insert the feeler gauge between the rotor and the distributor cap. The feeler gauge should be able to slide between the rotor and the cap with a slight drag.
- If the feeler gauge does not fit, adjust the timing by turning the distributor slightly clockwise or counterclockwise.
Step 4: Reinstall the distributor cap and spark plugs
- Reinstall the distributor cap.
- Reinstall the spark plugs.
Step 5: Reconnect the battery
- Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
Your timing should be correctly set.
