Ignition timing display (Peugeot J5)

Checking and/or setting the ignition timing should only be done using a strobe lamp. When checking or setting the ignition timing, the vacuum hose must be disconnected from the ignition distributor and closed with the appropriate plug. The ignition timing plate on the timing cover has marks for the top dead center and ignition timing. The corresponding cut on the crankshaft pulley must be opposite the corresponding ignition timing mark (10°) when checking the ignition timing setting, following the instructions below.

The ignition timing is adjusted as follows:

• Connect the stroboscope in accordance with its operating instructions.
• Start the engine and let it run at idle speed. In this case, take into account the differences between different types of engines. Engines with a displacement of 1.8 liters and a displacement of 2.0 liters with a power of 78 hp must have a speed of more than 800 rpm, and engines with a displacement of 2.0 liters with a power of 85 hp must have a speed of more than 700 rpm.

If the engine is running rough, it should be adjusted beforehand, as the ignition timing is very difficult to determine when the engine is running poorly.

• Slightly loosen the distributor clamp bolt without unscrewing it.
• Direct the strobe light beam at the crankshaft pulley. The engine is ignited when the notch on the crankshaft pulley is at the 10° mark when illuminated by a strobe light. If the notch is not visible, turn off the engine, crank the crankshaft until the notch on the pulley is visible, and mark the notch with white paint. After this, the white spot will be clearly visible when illuminated by a strobe light.
• Turn the ignition distributor, while simultaneously observing the cut on the pulley illuminated by the stroboscope, until the cut is positioned opposite the mark on the plate scale.
• Stop the engine, tighten the bolt and check the ignition timing again using the method described above. Additional adjustments may be required.
• Turn off the strobe lamp and connect the vacuum hose. Check the idle speed after adjusting the ignition timing.

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