Ford Explorer, Maintaince And Repair Manual, Page: 106 / 1119

A remote starter must NOT be used to start the vehicle when setting the initial ignition timing.
Disconnecting the start wire at the starter relay will cause the ignition control module to revert to Start
Mode timing after the vehicle is started. Reconnecting the start wire after the vehicle is running WILL
NOT correct the timing.
Start the engine (using the ignition key and NOT a remote starter to assure timing will be set
correctly) and allow the engine to return to normal operating temperature. 9.
With the engine running at the specified rpm, check the initial timing. If adjustments must be made,
rotate the distributor while watching the timing marks. Once proper adjustment has been reached,
make sure the distributor is not disturbed until the hold−down bolt can be secured. 10.
Reconnect the single wire in−line SPOUT connector and check the timing to verify that the distributor
is now advancing beyond the initial setting. 11.
Shut the engine OFFand tighten the distributor bolt while CAREFULLY holding the distributor from
turning. If the distributor moves, you will have to start the engine and reset the timing. 12.
Restart the engine and repeat the procedure to check the timing and verify that it did not change 13.
Shut the engine OFF, then disconnect the tachometer and timing light. 14.
CHECKING SPARK TIMING ADVANCE
Spark timing advance is controlled by the EEC system. This procedure checks the capability of the ignition
module to receive the spark timing command from the EEC module. The use of a volt/ohmmeter is required.
Turn the ignition switch OFF. 1.
Disconnect the pin−in−line connector (SPOUT connector) near the TFI module. 2.
Start the engine and measure the voltage, at idle, from the SPOUT connector to the distributor base.
The reading should equal battery voltage. 3.
If the result is okay, the problem lies within the EEC−IV system. 4.
If the result was not satisfactory, separate the wiring harness connector from the ignition module.
Check for damage, corrosion or dirt. Service as necessary. 5.
Measure the resistance between terminal No. 5 and the pin−in−line connector. This test is done at the
ignition module connector only. The reading should be less than 5 ohms. 6.
If the reading is okay, replace the TFI module. 7.
If the result was not satisfactory, service the wiring between the pin in−line connector and the TFI
connector. 8.
Except 1991−94 2.9L and 3.0L Engines
These engines utilize a Distributorless Ignition System (DIS). On this system, ignition coil packs fire the
spark plugs directly through the spark plug wires. All spark timing and advance is determined by the ignition
control module and engine control computer. No ignition timing adjustments are necessary or possible.
Valve Lash
No periodic valve lash adjustments are necessary on these engines. All the engines utilize hydraulic
valvetrains to automatically maintain proper valve lash.
Idle Speed and Mixture Adjustments
The engines covered by this manual utilize sophisticated multi−port fuel injection systems in which an engine
control computer utilizes information from various sensors to control idle speed and air fuel mixtures. No
periodic adjustments are either necessary or possible on these systems. If a problem is suspected, please refer
to Sections 4 and 5 of this manual for more information on electronic engine controls and fuel injection.
HOW TO USE THIS BOOK
92 INSPECTION & ADJUSTMENT