NOTE: Verify that increasing engine speed advances ignition timing.

Ensure transmission is in Neutral or Park and parking brake is set. Inspect crankshaft pulley timing mark and timing mark indicator on timing belt cover. See Fig 1 . Clean marks as required. Start engine, and warm it to normal operating temperature. Turn engine off with ignition on for 5 seconds. Restart engine. Run engine at 2000 RPM for 5 minutes, and then return it to idle. Turn all accessories off. Attach timing light to No. 1 spark plug wire. Ensure idle speed is correct. See IDLE SPEED SPECIFICATIONS table under IDLE SPEED & MIXTURE.
CAUTION: Driving with jumper wire installed in monitor coupler will damage catalytic converter.
Remove protective cap from monitor coupler located next to battery. Connect jumper wire between terminals "C" (ground) and "D" (test switch). See Fig 2 . Aim timing light at crankshaft pulley and timing cover timing marks. If ignition timing is not within specification, loosen distributor hold-down flange bolts, and rotate distributor to obtain correct ignition timing. See IGNITION TIMING table. Tighten distributor hold-down flange bolts, and recheck ignition timing.
NOTE: With jumper wire installed, timing should be fixed. If timing varies, terminal "D" is not properly grounded.
Remove jumper wire from monitor coupler. Ensure ignition timing advances as engine speed increases. If ignition timing does not advance, check TPS, monitor coupler wiring circuit, engine start signal circuit and ECM.

IGNITION TIMING (Degrees BTDC @ RPM)

Application	Man. Trans.	Auto. Trans.
PFI	4-6 @ 800	4-6 @ 800
TBI	7-9 @ 750-850	7-9 @ 750-850

Fig 1: Locating Ignition Timing Mark

Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.

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: Notes