2nd Generation Specific (1986-1992) 1986-1992 Discussion including performance modifications and technical support sections.

why does timing change with high idle

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Old Aug 31, 2009 | 06:48 AM
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From: ct
why does timing change with high idle

i do now that when your idle is a little high above 1000 it will change your idle....is this safe for our rx7s because i can adjust my idle to 750 but it runs rough, at 1000 its smooth what do you suggest for timing over 1000rpm
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Old Aug 31, 2009 | 07:57 AM
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From: cold
as engine rpm increases and engine vacuum increases (as you would expect on a car idling high), timing advances. even on older cars with distributors it would do this.

it could be running rough at 750rpm for any number of reasons
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Old Aug 31, 2009 | 01:52 PM
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Originally Posted by dennis blackstone
i do now that when your idle is a little high above 1000 it will change your idle....is this safe for our rx7s because i can adjust my idle to 750 but it runs rough, at 1000 its smooth what do you suggest for timing over 1000rpm
Set your timing at 750. the ECU will do the rest.
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Old Aug 31, 2009 | 04:03 PM
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From: ct
so if i set my timing at 750 and drive around a bit and check the timing while the idle has increased to 1000 and my marks are of its ok?
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Old Aug 31, 2009 | 04:07 PM
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Your marks are "off" because the ECU advances the timing above idle. It's supposed to do that.
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Old Aug 31, 2009 | 04:51 PM
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Originally Posted by dennis blackstone
so if i set my timing at 750 and drive around a bit and check the timing while the idle has increased to 1000 and my marks are of its ok?
Yes, once you set the timing at a speed below1100-1200rpm, preferably at the speed the manual states (725-775), then that is all you need to do. Like the jpg attached says, below 1200 rpm the timing is FIXED but when you rev over 1200rpm the ECU all by itself moves the timing. Note how turning the a/c on or pwr steering on, the Fixed timing moves a bit. Also on start the Fixed timing is moved to plus five degrees for both lead and trail.

Bascially if you set the timing below 1000 rpm, it's going to be ok. I say 1000 rpm because the tach on Some of these cars is off a hundred or so rpm. Not all, some.

I've often wondered, if the initial set coupler is installed *Will the timing still advance if the engine is rev'd to over 1200 rpm???*. I'm too lazy to go out and look.
Attached Thumbnails why does timing change with high idle-fixed.jpg  
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Old Aug 31, 2009 | 06:21 PM
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I always thought the initial set coupler was a lock timing for the base timing. I can't remember if I tried it though. I have a standalone now, so I can't check.
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Old Aug 31, 2009 | 07:11 PM
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Its not, all it does is disable the BAC>
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Old Aug 31, 2009 | 10:02 PM
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From: ct
so ive got my timing set ...is it ok to run a higher idle like 1100 is there any pros/cons for a high idle
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Old Sep 1, 2009 | 05:27 AM
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I knew about the BAC, that's why I ignore the intitial set coupler setting idle/timing, and just reach over and pull the BAC plug off. Easier.

Now I know about whether or not the timing will still be altered if I had a initial set coupler installed and don't have to go out and fiddle with the car to find out.

HIgher idle will eat a bit more gas and if the car had needed to be emissionis inspected, would cause problems with the emissioins tester and other problems with emissions testing.

If the car is a series four, and idles badly, you might try turning the variable resistor to it's fully clockwise stop and see if things get a bit better. Note where the screw was prior to moving the screw so you can return it to that position if needed.
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Old Sep 1, 2009 | 06:45 AM
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From: ct
well i have a jdm motor so it has no throtle stop screw. the bac ,i had to change to a us bac with the screw so now i have a little adjustment ...now my timing is set my tps set ....ive checked for leaks i dont no what else to do to lower idle without it dying once i hit the street....also do you stab the cas when the engine is hot
i stabed my when it was cold
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Old Sep 1, 2009 | 08:54 AM
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No different hot than cold. After installing the CAS the timing needs to be checked with a timing light when the engine is fully up to temperature (hot). Temperature effects timing.
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Old Sep 1, 2009 | 03:55 PM
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From: ct
nice info ...i just want to get it right ...now i took it for a spin when i hit second my car goes sideways ,so for some reason power has increased .. ?
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