[joefrontier2]

I dropped my timing back to 10 instead of 12. I never even messed with the timing on the truck until about three weeks ago to check it. I am assuming it's always been set to 12 every since I owned it.
After doing the decrease the engine seemed to run smoother. However, now it 20 degrees out so maybe the combination of cold and advance timing will do that.

I did now that when turning up the timing the engine reved faster and just the opposite when going to far down. I guess is probably not news to some but I never played with timing before .

 

[adorsey]

This is probably a stupid question and I feel like a moron asking but how do you change your timing?

 

[joefrontier2]

Not such a stupid question it is not really mentioned on too many forums for the first gen.

Do you have a service manual? They are free on the internet. EC.PDF is the one you need to read.

I will give a break down

Run engine for 2 minutes at 2000 RPMs
Then rev engine 2 to 3 times to 2000 - 3000 RPMs
Turn off engine, unplug throttle sensor
Then turn truck on rev 2 to 3 times to 2000 - 3000 RPMS
Hook up timing light to check timing.

To change timing keep engine running after hooking up timming light
Loosen do not undo the distributor hold down bolt (12MM I think).
Then turn distributor a bit and then check timing.
You can advance it or de-advance it by turning the distributor.

10 degrees is stock setting.

After setting timing tighten bolt, turn off engine, plug the sensor back in. Take for test drive.