Timing set at 10*BTDC is best??

[Lankan]

Even though the FSM says that the timing should be set at 10*BTDC, is there a best setting for certain circumstances such as:

1) When going in for a smog
2) For overall performance/every day use
3) For maximum power (not so good on gas)
4) For getting the best mpg (not producing maximum power)

Or is the factory recommended setting the one that it should be set, at all times?

 

[OCMike]

I set mine at 12. Feels like a little more power and didn't affect my smog test at all, which I barely passed. My problem was the HC levels. I believe you need to have it set within 3 of what the tag says in order to pass the timing check test.

 

[Lankan]

So the inspection allows for up to +/-3* from what's recommended right? From what I've read so far, it seems like the more the timing is re****ed, it's better if your having high "NO" readings. So for the smog check I'll go in with it set at 13?

 

[fourwd1]

So the inspection allows for up to +/-3* from what's recommended right? From what I've read so far, it seems like the more the timing is re****ed, it's better if your having high "NO" readings. So for the smog check I'll go in with it set at 13?

The "inspection" doesn't allow anything. It just measures the results.
Re****ing the spark until it barely runs can sometimes help pass emissions.
Also, changing the oil right before can help improve HC (but not NO).

 

[OCMike]

I failed my inspection because my timing was set at 5. Set it to 12, went back for a retest, and passed. My HC and NO readings did not change.