I will tell you it is a complete pain in the DONKEY to remove the entire assembly that is what I did. A good starting point for you would be to remove the card holder/slash sunroof control from your headliner. Just kinda pry it down with a screwdriver or something. Once you take it down you will...
I would not trust a mechanic that just replaces a part,only to see if it fix's the problem. Have you watched your volt meter to see what kind of voltage your alternator is putting out at idle and above idle? It may be creating some sort of power surge when you are above idle in normal driving...
To answer your question more directly...
centrifugal
vacuum
computer advance
some have rpm indication built into them
some are for 2 cycle and 4 cycle motors
Another good link...
HowStuffWorks "Ignition System Distributor"
Most new vehicles have a Distributorless Ignition check it out on the...
On most later model vehicles the only way you can affect timing is by replacing the timing belt itself. The on board computer actually manages and controlls the setting of your advance or re**** at all times while your motor is running. Also if it has OBDII you can hook almost any code reader...
Are you going to rebuild the entire engine? If I just had a burnt valve I would remove the heads first, have them rebuilt (or rebuild it your self). Do you have bad compression?
If I were to do a complete tear down. I would
-clean the air intake manifold (Sand blast it out, or take it to a...
You know I bought these bad boys about 3 or 4 years ago for my old S-10 Zr2 they are nastey bright. and they run off 100 watt bulbs.
Chrome Off-Road Halogen Baja Light 100 Watt by Blazer - Part C52CW - Advance Auto Parts
I would go to harbor freight and pick up one of there timing guns for like $30.
Harbor Freight Tools
But as far as your particular advance is concerned, not sure what it should be.
Another good way to check for leaks in your exhaust system is to go to your exit pipe and (wear a glove or an oven mit) but plug the exit pipe with your hand. If it is air tight you wont hear much other than hissing. Dont plug it for to long ( max 10-15 seconds) Should sound pretty obvious if...