Start engine, and warm it to normal operating temperature. Ensure idle speed is within specification. Adjust idle as necessary. See IDLE SPEED under IDLE SPEED & MIXTURE.
Turn engine and all accessories off. Connect timing light to No. 1 spark plug wire. Connect a fused jumper wire between terminals No. 1 (Blue/Black wire) and No. 3 (Orange/Yellow wire) of White 3-pin ALDL connector, located behind right kick panel. See Fig 1 .
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.
If ignition timing is not within specification, loosen distributor hold-down bolt and rotate distributor to obtain correct ignition timing. Tighten distributor hold-down bolt to 15 ft. lbs. (20 N.m). Recheck ignition timing.
Turn engine off. Remove jumper wire from ALDL connector. Remove timing light.

Fig 1: Locating ALDL Connector (Storm & Storm GSi)

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

IGNITION TIMING SPECIFICATIONS⁽¹⁾

Application

Man. Trans.

Auto. Trans.

Storm & Storm GSi

⁽²⁾ 10 @ 700

⁽¹⁾	If specification differs from emission label, use specification listed on emission label.

⁽²⁾	With jumper wire installed between terminals No. 1 & 3 of White 3-pin ALDL diagnostic connector, located under right side of dash.

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.

Safety Warning

Ignition Timing