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INSPECTION & ADJUSTMENT

2TZ-FE and 1991–95 Models

This service procedure is for setting base ignition timing. Refer to underhood emission sticker for any additional service procedure steps and/or specifications.

These engines require a tachometer hook-up to the check connector — see illustrations. NEVER allow the tachometer terminal to become grounded; severe and expensive damage can occur to the coil and/or igniter.

Some tachometers are not compatible with this ignition system, confirm the compatibility of your unit before using.

  1. Warm the engine to normal operating temperature. Turn off all electrical accessories. Do not attempt to check timing specification or idle speed on a cold engine.
  2. Connect a tachometer (connect the tachometer (+) terminal to the terminal IG- of the check connector) and check the engine idle speed to be sure it is within the specification given in the Tune-Up Specifications chart or underhood emission sticker.

    Fig. 1: Attach the tachometer to the battery and check connector terminal IG- — 1991–93 models

    Fig. 2: Attach the tachometer to the battery and check connector terminal IG- — 1994–95 models

  3. Remove the cap on the diagnostic check connector. Using a small jumper wire or Special Service Tool SST 09843-18020, short terminals TE1 (test terminal No. 1) and E1 (earth-ground) together.
  4. If the timing marks are difficult to see, shut the engine OFF and use a dab of paint or chalk to make them more visible.

    Fig. 3: Using the SST 09843-18020 or a jumper wire, connect terminals TE1 and E1 of the DLC1 — 1994–95 models

  5. Connect the timing light power source terminal to terminal 30 of the starter and test probe to the No. 1 spark plug wire (light blue).

    Fig. 4: Connect the timing light power source terminal to terminal 30 of the starter and test probe to the No. 1 spark plug wire (light blue)

  6. Start the engine and use the timing light to observe the timing marks. With the jumper wire in the check connector the timing should be 5°BTDC (refer to underhood emission sticker as necessary) with the engine fully warmed up (at correct idle speed) and the transmission in correct position. If the timing is not correct, loosen the bolts at the distributor just enough so that the distributor can be turned. Turn the distributor to advance or retard the timing as required. Once the proper marks are seen to align with the timing light, timing is correct.

    Fig. 5: If necessary, loosen the 2 mounting bolts and turn the distributor to adjust the timing while aiming the light

  7. Without changing the position of the distributor, tighten the distributor bolts and double check the timing with the light (check idle speed as necessary).
  8. Disconnect the jumper wire or Special Service Tool (SST) at the diagnostic check connector.

    NOTE: This jumper will be used repeatedly during diagnostics in later sections. Take the time to make a proper jumper with correct terminals or probes. It's a valuable special tool for very low cost.

  9. Refer to the underhood emission sticker for timing specification and any additional service procedure steps. If necessary, repeat the timing adjustment procedure.
  10. Shut the engine OFF and disconnect all test equipment. Roadtest the vehicle for proper operation.
2TZ-FZE and 1996–97 Models

NOTE: Toyota's hand-held tester or an equivalent OBD-II scan tool must be used for this procedure.

  1. Warm the engine to normal operating temperature.
  2. Connect an OBD-II compliant scan tool to the DLC3 located under the dash on the driver's side. Refer to Section 4 for more information.

    Fig. 6: Connect an OBD-II scan tool to the DLC3 located under the driver's side of the dash

  3. Connect the timing light power source terminal to terminal 30 of the starter and test probe to the No. 1 spark plug wire (light blue).
  4. Using SST 09843–18020 or its equivalent jumper wire, connect terminals TE1 and E1 of the DLC1 under the hood.
  5. After the engine speed is kept at about 2500 rpm for 5 seconds, check that it returns to idle speed.
  6. Check the ignition timing, the reading should be 10°BTDC at idle.
  7. If adjustment is necessary, loosen the 2 hold-down bolts, and adjust by turning the IIA. Tighten the hold-down bolts to 14 ft. lbs. (20 Nm), and recheck the ignition timing.
  8. Remove the jumper wire from the DLC1.
  9. Recheck the timing, the mark ranges:
  10. Disconnect the scan tool.
  11. Disconnect the timing light.

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