Getting 2 different procedures for setting the timing on an 85' cutlass 307 engine. One says disconnect the 4-pin connector at the hei distributer to set timing. Other says ground with a jumper at the diagnostic connector under the dash. Which is correct? What is the proper way?

 

Well, the method I used on mine (It did work) is disconnecting the connector on the distributor. Not the one that connects the coil to the battery but another one on the other side. Once you remove it you set the timing and after the timing is at 20 you reconnect the connector.

 

The Factory Service Manual says to just ground the test terminal in the ALDL connector, though pulling the plug effectively produced the same result. Being lazy myself, I find it a lot easier to just stick a bent paper clip in the diagnostic connector.

 

Thanks for the info guys, I appreciate it. Pinner

 

Hey guys, I stumbled across this post when searching timing adjustment procedures. I have an 83 delta 88 with the 307. I was experiencing some hesitation when the engine was hot. I checked the timing without disconnecting anything, it was 24 degrees btdc. Then i disconnected the four pin connector by the distributor, base advance was only 10 degrees. So I set it to 20 degrees. shut off the engine, and put the connector together.
It immediately had more pep. However, as i feared, there was a very slight pinging. I run regular gas and i know that can cause detonation. Yesterday I turned the timing back to 16 degrees. Less pinging, but still there when the trans goes into third and i'm pushing it. Its barely noticiable but i know it's there because i'm listening for it.
My question is, did I set the timing correctly? and will I possibly damage something from the slight pinging by leaving the timing where it is ?

Thanks in advance for any advice
-Rob