Date:    Wed, 23 Feb 2005 14:17:40 -0500
From:    tabe johnson <xtabe@YAHOO.COM>
Subject: Re: Timing 1.9,2.1 engines

Timing these engines is straightforward, though reading Bentley
doesn't make it sound simple!

Here's a paraphrased posting of Dennis Haynes' which explains
it most clearly:

Ignition Timing Procedure 1986+ Vanagon 2.1L Digifant

1.      Warm engine to normal operating temp.
2.      Shut off engine.
3.      Connect timing light.
4.      Connect tachometer. (optional)
5.      Restart engine and run up to more than 2000 RPM. (~2500 works well)
6.      Disconnect BLUE CONNECTOR from Temp sensor II. (Don't catch your tie in the belts!)
7.      Maintain engine RPMs ~2500 and point timing light at timing mark. (5 BTDC)
8.      If timing mark aligns with split line between crankcase halves timing is correct.
9. If not loosen distributor and make adjustment. Don't forget to retighten the distributor if you
had to loosen it.

Tabe,

I don't agee with this timing of total 5 degrees before Top Dead Center at 2500 Rpm.  Total advance should be all in by 2500   RPM, and that is 35 degrees plus idle for a total advance of 40 degrees. Perhaps your reading Dennis's instructions incorrectly.

Mark Keller

91 Carat