Method With Timing Light

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

Before checking the ignition timing, check the following item:
1. Check the air cleaner element is free from clogging, spark plugs are in good condition, and hoses are connected properly.
2. Check the malfunction indicator light does not illuminate.
Warm up the engine.
Stop the engine, and turn the ignition switch to OFF.
Remove the collector cover.
1. Carefully pull up the rear of collector cover at two positions (A).
2. Carefully pull up the front of collector cover at two positions (B) while moving it forward.
  
  Fig 1: Removing Collector Cover
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Disconnect the ground terminal from battery sensor. < Ref. to BATTERY , NOTE, Repair Contents. >
Remove the air intake duct. < Ref. to REMOVAL , Air Intake Duct. >
Remove the air cleaner case and the air cleaner element. < Ref. to REMOVAL , Air Cleaner Case. > < Ref. to REMOVAL , Air Cleaner Element. >
Connect the timing light to the power wire of #1 ignition coil.
Install the air cleaner case and the air cleaner element, and connect the connector of the mass air flow and intake air temperature sensor. < Ref. to INSTALLATION , Air Cleaner Case. > < Ref. to INSTALLATION , Air Cleaner Element. >
Connect the ground terminal to battery sensor. < Ref. to BATTERY , NOTE, Repair Contents. >
Start the engine, turn the timing light to the crank pulley, and check the ignition timing through the chain cover gauge.
NOTE: If ignition timing is out of standard, check the ignition control system. Refer to "Engine Control System". < Ref. to BASIC DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE . >

Ignition timing [BTDC/{r/min}]:

Standard

15° ± 8°/700

Fig 2: Checking Ignition Timing
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
After inspection, install the related parts in the reverse order of removal.