Checking the ignition timing adjustment by the ignition distributor (Peugeot J5)

As already mentioned, precise testing of the operation of vacuum and centrifugal regulators can only be carried out on test benches. However, to generally check the operation of both regulators, the following work must be carried out:

6.4.1. Checking the centrifugal governor

You can check the operation of the centrifugal regulator of the ignition distributor by turning the distributor runner by hand in the direction in which there is resistance to rotation. When the slider is released, it should automatically return to its original position. If this does not happen, then either the inertial weights are dirty or the return spring is weak. If you have the necessary equipment, you can check the ignition timing shift as follows:

• Connect a strobe light to the engine.
• Disconnect the vacuum hose from the ignition distributor.
• Start the engine and let it idle.
• Direct the strobe light beam at the crankshaft pulley. In this case, you should also mark it with white paint to better see the cut on the pulley.
• Increase the engine speed and check for visible movement of the cut on the belt pulley when illuminated by a strobe light. This confirms the operation of the centrifugal ignition timing regulator, but does not provide the ability to measure the exact shift in ignition timing at specific engine speeds.
• Measuring the ignition timing shift at certain engine speeds can be done at a service station.

6.4.2. Checking the vacuum regulator

The overall functioning of the regulator is also checked using a strobe lamp. To check, run the engine at 3000 rpm. Leave the vacuum hose connected to the ignition distributor.

• With the strobe light directed at the crankshaft pulley, disconnect the vacuum hose from the ignition distributor. At the same time, check whether the ignition timing changes, that is, whether there is a visible "movement" of the cut on the belt pulley when illuminated by a strobe light.
• Reconnect the vacuum hose to the distributor and check that the notch on the pulley returns to the position it was in before disconnecting the vacuum hose.
• If the ignition timing does not change, then the breaker plate is jammed or there is a leak in the vacuum hose or in the vacuum box.