1992 Geo Prizm Base, StandardFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Ignition Timing

  1. Warm engine to normal operating temperature. Turn engine off. Remove cover from diagnostic connector, located on left strut tower. Connect tachometer to specified terminal of diagnostic connector and battery terminal. See Fig 1 .
    CAUTION: DO NOT ground IG terminal in diagnostic connector; grounding this terminal could result in ignitor or ignition coil damage.
  2. Start engine. Ensure all accessories are off. Ensure idle speed is within specification. Adjust idle speed if it is not as specified. See IDLE SPEED under IDLE SPEED & MIXTURE.
  3. Turn engine off. Connect timing light to No. 1 spark plug wire. Install jumper wire between terminals "E1" and "TE1" of diagnostic connector. See Fig 1 .
  4. Start engine and check timing mark alignment on crankshaft pulley with timing marks on timing belt cover. Ignition timing must be within specification. See IGNITION TIMING SPECIFICATIONS table.
  5. If ignition timing is not within specification, loosen distributor hold-down bolts and rotate distributor to obtain correct ignition timing. Tighten distributor hold-down bolts to 15 ft. lbs. (20 N.m). Recheck ignition timing.
  6. Turn engine off. Remove jumper wire from diagnostic connector. Remove timing light.
Fig 1: Diagnostic Connector Terminal ID
G91H16789Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
IGNITION TIMING SPECIFICATIONS (1)

Application Man. Trans. Auto. Trans.
Prizm & Prizm GSi (2) 10 @ 700 (2) 10 @ 700-800
(1) If specification differs from emission label, use specification listed on emission label.
(2) With jumper wire installed between terminals E1 (Brown wire) and T1 or TE1 (Blue/White wire) of diagnostic connector, located on left strut tower.
Factory Service Tools

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

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