Ignition Timing

Check ignition timing with engine at normal operating temperature and with distributor vacuum hoses disconnected and plugged. At idle speed, White mark should align with pointer. If White mark is not present, set timing to specification. See IGNITION TIMING table. To adjust timing, loosen hold-down bolts and turn distributor.
Reconnect vacuum hose No. 2 (nearest distributor) and recheck timing at idle. Timing should advance 4-8 degrees (midway between White and Red marks). If timing does not advance, check diaphragm and vacuum hose.

Fig 1: Ignition Timing Marks
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
With No. 2 vacuum hose connected, reconnect vacuum hose No. 5 (farthest from distributor) and recheck timing at idle. Timing should advance 10-14° (Red mark aligned with pointer). If timing does not advance, check diaphragm and vacuum hose.

IGNITION TIMING (DEGREES BTDC @ RPM) ⁽¹⁾

Application

Setting

Hoses Plugged ⁽²⁾

TDC@800

Hose No. 2 Connected; No. 5 Plugged ⁽³⁾

4-8@800

Both Hoses Connected ⁽⁴⁾

10-14@800

⁽¹⁾	All transmissions in Neutral.

⁽²⁾	Align White mark with pointer if equipped.

⁽³⁾	Midway between White and Red mark if equipped.

⁽⁴⁾	Align Red mark with pointer if equipped.