Timing

Good morning,

Did you disconnect the spout connector at the distributor?

If you did not, then this is normal as the ECM is controlling the timing and it will vary.

If it is disconnected and is varying, it could be the distributor or the timing chain that has too much slack.

Roy

INITIAL TIMING
Place transmission in NEUTRAL or PARK with Air Conditioner Heater in OFF position.
Cylinder Numbering And Distributor Location
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Connect an inductive timing light.
Disconnect the single wire in-line Spark Output (SPOUT) connector or remove the shorting bar from the double wire SPOUT connector located near distributor.
Start engine and allow to reach operating temperature.

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With engine at timing rpm, check or adjust initial timing to specification. See: Ignition Timing Specifications
Reconnect single wire in-line Spout connector or reconnect shorting bar.
Check timing advance to verify distributor is advancing beyond the initial setting. If it does not, perform EEC IV Quick Test. See: Computers and Control Systems Reading and Clearing Diagnostic Trouble Codes
Remove test instruments.

Hello my name is Dave.

When you are using the timing light did you remove the spout connector? If you didn't it will show an erratic pattern. I have attached a picture of the connector, when you are using the timing light the spout needs to be removed then reinstalled after you are finished.
If after removing the spout connector your timing is still erratic then I would check and see if there is any play in the timing chain.
The easiest way to check it is to remove the distributor cap and using a breaker bar on the crank pulley bolt turn the crankshaft first clockwise then counterclockwise observing how long it takes for the rotor button to move when changing directions, there should be very little movement in the crankshaft before the rotor button moves. If there is excessive movement you would need to replace the timing chain set.
If there isn't excessive play the I would remove the ignition module from the side of the distributor and have it tested at your local auto parts store (I usually call around to make sure they have the equipment). If it tests to be good then the last suspect is usually the pick up in the distributor however it is usually not worth the effort to replace just the pick up so I would recommend just replacing the distributor itself.
Please keep us up to date on your progress and thank you for using 2CarPros!

You are welcome.

Always glad to help.

Roy