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Forum > General Smog Check > Question

Does My Car Have Adjustable or Non Adjustable Ignition Timing?

I'm getting confused about ignition timing. So how do I determine the adjustable ignition timing on vehicle?

1.If the car has distributor it means that the timing is adjustable and without distributor the timing is not adjustable?

2.Is it possible to adjust the timing without distributor?

3.Is there any method to find out what car has adjustable timing?

Answer:

Not necessarily does it mean that a vehicle's ignition timing is adjustable because it has a distributor. Ford has many vehicle models between the early to late 90's which have distributors but there underhood emissions labels indicate "timing is non-adjustable". So the best way to learn whether timing is or is not adjustable is by reading the underhood emissions label, or looking up the vehicle's emission requirements in an emissions applications guide. Keep in mind, if you suspect a vehicle has had it's hood replaced you should use an emissions application guide instead of reading the underhood label. Obviously if a vehicle does not have a distributor, ignition timing is not adjustable. posted by SmogTips Support

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