Ignition timing - checking

Engine electrical systems / Ignition timing - checking

As noted in Section 4, the ignition timing is controlled entirely by the ECU (acting with the ignition module, on models with automatic transmission), and cannot be adjusted. The value quoted in the Specifications Section of this Chapter is for reference only, and may vary significantly if “checked” by simply connecting a timing light to the system and running the engine at idle speed.

Not only can the ignition timing not be adjusted, it cannot be checked either, except with the use of special diagnostic equipment (see Chapter 6) - this makes it a task for a Ford dealer service department.

Owners who are taking their vehicles abroad should note that the ignition system is set for the engine to use petrol of 95 RON octane rating by fitting a “plug-in bridge” to the service connector on the engine compartment bulkhead (see illustration).

8.3 Service connector (A) mounted on engine compartment bulkhead is fitted with “plug-in bridge” (B) to set engine to use (unleaded) petrol of 95 RON octane rating

Removing the “plug-in bridge” retards the ignition timing - by an unspecified value - to allow the engine to run on 91 RON fuel. This grade of fuel is the “Regular” or “Normal” widely used abroad, but not at present available in the UK. If you are taking the vehicle abroad, seek the advice of a Ford dealer (or of one of the motoring organisations). This will ensure that you are familiar with the grades of fuel you are likely to find (and the sometimes confusing names for those grades), and that the vehicle is set correctly at all times for the fuel used. Note: The octane ratings mentioned above are both, of course, for unleaded petrol. Do not use leaded petrol at any time in a vehicle equipped with a catalytic converter.