3fe guru's please help - timing issues

[Allan W]

So having a little drama with the timing and would like some ideas.

Issue is as follows -
If I set up the timing as described in all the manuals and on this site (at 7' ) the car runs but has a bit of a knock/miss feel too it when pushed at all.

If I bring it back closer to TDC it runs smoother, but gets a "ping" happening when under load. The more the load, the worse the ping noise.

I have just had the head machined, valves reseated and head gasket replaced. Had no issues when starting it after all the work other than the timing noises when under load. Everything seems relatively clean and tidy (on the inside at least).

There is a temperature sensor (the one with the green plug fitting #182-65) that has the plug section broken off , but he plug section is still connected to the cable socket. I believe this is the one that goes back to the computer.

Does take a few seconds to start but with a bit of the loud pedal it usually starts within a few seconds. Idle can be rough for about 15- 30 seconds while it warms up a bit.

Is there anything I may be missing as far as issues go, could it be the temp sensor causing the problems.

 

[cruisermatt]

Are you 100% positive you have the distributor in correctly? It sounds like it is one tooth off.
Also you can rule out the temperature sender, its not causing your issue. You should still fix it though.

 

[MrMoose]

Agree with cruisermatt. I was super paranoid when I put my dizzy back in and did it like 10 times to be sure. It's a pain to see through the timing window, so make sure to use the right reference points.

 

[tacoma2002]

I just checked/set the timing on mine a few days ago. When I first checked it wasn't even close.

I brought it back to FSM spec and it has noticeably less power and I believe it to be running lean also.

I believe adjusting the mass air meter will correct my issue.

The problem is that gas was better quality when these vehicles came out. The 10% standard ethanol fuel now days makes the engine require more fuel to get the same job done.

There are lots of threads on Mass air Meter adjustment.

Good luck

 

[Allan W]

Are you 100% positive you have the distributor in correctly? It sounds like it is one tooth off.
Also you can rule out the temperature sender, its not causing your issue. You should still fix it though.

I never took the dizzy out. Not to say it hasnt been put in wrong in the past. Timing sets up ok to the 7deg mark as required. Just doesnt seem to run correct.

At a bit of a loss