can someone run me through the process of adjusting the timing on one of these 80's computer controlled distributors, I know I have to ground the computer but I don't know what to unplug

 

Exactly what year and what car ?

 

85 delta 88

 

SEARCH is your friend:

https://classicoldsmobile.com/forums...djustment.html

Bottom line is that you don't disconnect anything. You simply jumper the A and B terminals in the ALDL connector to ground the diagnostic lead.

 

might be a stupid question but where is the ALDL connector located

 

Under the dash, below the steering column.

 

If you plan to do any work on this car, get a set of these. There are many on ebay right now, with prices under $20.

 

On the G-bodies it's closer to the center of the dash. Is it really under the steering column for the Delta 88?

 

Yep.

 

Is the timing supposed to be at 20 degrees btdc with the test lead grounded or is it supposed to be at 20 degrees without the test lead ground,

 

Did you read the link back in Post #4 or the CSM?

In any case, here's a little common sense: The computer is constantly varying the timing based on multiple sensor conditions. If you try to set the timing with the computer active, it will continue to vary the timing while you are setting it, meaning you will NEVER get an accurate initial timing set. Jumpering the ALDL connector as described above locks out the computer so you can set the timing properly.

 

Ah ok I gotcha, thanks Joe