Set timing on a vehicle?

EPIPHANY101

MEMBER
2001 MITSUBISHI DIAMANTE
3.5L
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
206,687 MILES

Okay, while I'm by no means a master mechanic I'm knowledgeable enough to set timing on a vehicle. Having said that, here's the problem: according to most diagrams the timing is 123456 with # 1 being front right facing motor. The timing marks are at approximately the 10 o'clock spot on the crank housing, which should theoretically pull up the # 1 cylinder to TDC. However, that isn't happening, according to the diagram with the 135 on the front and 246 next to firewall it brings the #3 and #6 cylinders up to TDC, yea I know I don't get it either unless they put the wrong timing plate on it somehow, I don't know, which is why I'm asking you guys to once again save me from another headache. Any help is greatly appreciated.

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1 Reply

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
42,959 POSTS

The #1 cylinder is near the firewall in the front of the engine here is instructions on how to set the timing and the firing order so you can see how the ignition system fires. Check the images below.

IGNITION TIMING CHECK
1. Before inspection, set the vehicle to the following condition.
- Engine coolant temperature: 80 - 95°C (176 - 203°F)
- Lights and all accessories: OFF
- Transmission: Neutral (P range)

2. Insert a paper clip into the No. 3 terminal of the 3 pin connector.
3. Connect a primary voltage detection type tachometer to the paper clip.
4. Install the timing light.
5. Start the engine and run at idle.
6. Check that the idle speed is about 700 r/min.
7. Turn the ignition switch to OFF.
8. Connect the scan tool to the data link connector.
9. Start the engine and run it at idle.
10. Select the MFI system Actuator Test from the scan tool menu and scroll to item 17 - Basic Ignition Timing.
11. Press the "Y" Key and check that the basic ignition timing is the standard value.
Standard value: 5° BTDC ± 3°
12. If the ignition timing value is not within the standard value range refer to On-vehicle Inspection of MFI Components and check the crankshaft position sensor.
13. Check that the idling ignition timing is at the correct value.
Standard value: Approx. 15° BTDC

Note: Ignition timing is variable within about ± 8° even under normal operating conditions. And it is automatically further advanced by about 5° from 15° BTDC at higher altitudes.

Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.

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