1996 Toyota Land CruiserFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Ignition Timing

  1. Start and warm engine to normal operating temperature. Shut engine off. Connect timing light to spark plug wire on cylinder No. 1 (front cylinder at timing chain end of engine). Remove cover and connect scan tester to data link connector No. 3. See Fig 1. Scan tester is used to read engine RPM.
  2. Apply parking brake. Place transmission in Neutral. Start engine and maintain engine at 2500 RPM for 90 seconds and then allow engine to idle. Ensure idle speed is 600-700 RPM.
  3. Install Jumper Wire (SST 09843-18020) between terminals TE1 and E1 of data link connector No. 1. See Fig 2.
    NOTE: Timing marks are located on front cover.
  4. Ensure base timing is within specification at idle with transmission in Neutral, and with A/C and all accessories off. See IGNITION TIMINGΒ  table.
  5. If base timing is incorrect, loosen distributor hold-down bolt. Rotate distributor to obtain correct base timing. Tighten distributor hold-down bolt. Recheck base timing.
  6. Remove jumper wire from data link connector No. 1. Ensure ECM controlled timing is within specification. See IGNITION TIMINGΒ  table. Shut engine off. Remove jumper wire, timing light and scan tester.
CAUTION: Some tachometers may not be compatible with ignition system. Consult tachometer manufacturer before connecting tachometer to ignition system. To avoid possible damage to igniter and/or coil, DO NOT allow tachometer terminal to become grounded.
IGNITION TIMING (Degrees BTDC @ Idle) (1)

Application Type (2) Base Timing (3) ECM Controlled Timing
Land Cruiser 3 2-13
(1) Check with engine at normal operating temperature, transmission in Neutral, parking brake applied, A/C and all accessories off.
(2) With Jumper Wire (SST 09843-18020) installed between terminals TE1 and E1 on data link connector No. 1.
(3) With jumper wire removed from data link connector No. 1.
Fig 1: Connecting Tachometer Or Scan Tester
G95H30897Courtesy of Β© TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
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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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