Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
1986 Ford Aerostar V6-183 3.0LFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
With Star Tester
Fig. 33 Checking in-line base timing electrical connector connection:
1. Ensure the in-line base timing electrical connector is securely connected, Fig. 33.
2. Start engine. If engine does not start refer to the appropriate Pinpoint Test charts.
3. Depress self-test button on STAR tester. Engine speed should increase. Do not note any codes that appear in the tester display window at this time.
4. Check computed ignition timing as follows:
a. Connect a suitable timing light onto engine as described previously.
b. With the EEC-IV system in the self-test mode, check ignition timing.
c. Ignition timing obtained should be 20° more than the specified base ignition timing.
d. If computed timing is not 20° more than the base timing, the system must be checked.
5. Deactivate the STAR tester by depressing self-test button. The colon should disappear along with any service codes displayed.
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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