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A timing adjustment service sets and verifies engine timing after work that disturbs it: a new distributor, a timing belt or chain job, a camshaft swap, or an engine replacement. Route 66 Auto Repair in Upland sets base ignition timing on distributor engines and checks cam and crank sync on newer ones, so the engine starts clean and runs to spec. You get a written estimate first, and the final readings go on your repair order.
When do you need a timing adjustment service?
- After a distributor was removed, replaced or bumped
- After a timing belt, chain or gear job done elsewhere or at home
- After a camshaft replacement or engine swap
- When a classic was rebuilt and never tuned afterward
- When a cam or crank correlation code appears after repair work
What do we verify beyond the timing mark?
On distributor engines, base timing is only the start. We also confirm the rotor points at cylinder one at top dead center, that the firing order is right, and that the advance curve works across the RPM range. A distributor installed one tooth off can run, but poorly.
On computer-controlled engines, we compare camshaft and crankshaft sensor signals. If they are out of sync after a timing belt replacement or chain job, the belt or chain may be a tooth off. That is a mechanical fix, and we explain it before going further. Your written estimate shows every step.
Our timing adjustment service process
Step 1: Confirm top dead center
We bring cylinder one to top dead center and check the marks on the crank, cam and distributor.
Step 2: Set base timing
On distributor engines, timing is set with a light at the specified idle and conditions.
Step 3: Check sync with data
On newer engines, we view cam and crank signals with a scan tool or scope.
Step 4: Record and road test
Final readings go on the repair order, and a technician road tests for knock and power.
What's included in the timing adjustment service
Included on the work order
- 01Top dead center and timing mark check
- 02Base timing set on distributor engines
- 03Advance curve check
- 04Cam and crank sync check on computer-controlled engines
- 05Readings recorded on the repair order
- 06Road test
Need-now or need-later?
Need now: call
- Engine will not start or backfires after timing work
- A timing belt or chain that may be a tooth off
Need later: book
- A running classic that was never tuned after a rebuild
- A one-time check after home ignition work
How pricing and timing work
Setting timing on a running distributor engine is a short job. If the engine will not start, or the belt or chain needs to be reset, the work grows, and we stop and quote that before continuing. Engines swapped into a different chassis may need research time, which we explain up front. AAA members get 10% off parts and labor, up to $75.
Aftercare
Drive normally and listen for pinging on your usual hills. Keep the repair order: the recorded readings help any future technician. If the engine was rebuilt, see our engine rebuilding page for break-in advice, and ask about a distributor cap replacement if the old cap came along for the ride.
Frequently asked questions
I replaced my own timing belt and now it runs rough. Can you help?
Yes. We check whether the belt is on the right teeth and whether the tensioner is set. Bring it in or have it towed in if it will not start. We explain what we find before making changes.
How is this different from a timing adjustment?
Our ignition timing adjustment is for engines with symptoms like pinging or flat power. This service is for setup after work that disturbed the timing, and it includes a full sync check.
Will a check engine light come on if timing is off?
On newer engines, often yes, with a cam or crank correlation code. Older distributor engines have no such warning, so the only sign may be how it runs. A check engine light diagnosis sorts out newer cars.