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.
1997 Lexus SC 300 AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Ignition Timing
NOTE:
Ignition timing is not adjustable.
- Warm engine to normal operating temperature. Turn ignition off. Connect timing light to spark plug wire for cylinder No. 1.
- Remove instrument panel fuse box cover and connect scan tool to Data Link Connector (DLC) No. 3. See Fig 1. Scan tool is used to read engine RPM.
- Apply parking brake. Ensure all accessories are off. Place transmission Neutral. Start engine and maintain engine speed at 2500 RPM for 90 seconds and then allow engine to idle. Ensure idle speed is 650-750 RPM.
- Install Jumper Wire (SST 09843-18020) between terminals TE1 and E1 of DLC No. 1. See Fig 2. Connector is located near air intake chamber. Check base timing. See IGNITION TIMING table.
- If base timing is correct, go to next step. If base timing is incorrect, loosen distributor hold-down bolt. Adjust base timing by rotating distributor. Tighten distributor hold-down bolt. Go to next step.
- Remove jumper wire from DLC No. 1. Ensure advance timing is within specification. See IGNITION TIMING table. Remove timing light and scan tool.
IGNITION TIMING
| Application | (1) Base Timing | (2) Controlled Timing | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SC300 | 10 @ 650-750 | 7-19 @ 650-750 | ||||
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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:
- 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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