Attention: The ignition timing is controlled by the control unit and can only be checked, not set. The current position is determined by two sensors (one on the camshaft housing and the other on the crankshaft belt pulley). In case of deviations from the specified values, it is necessary to determine the failed elements of the ignition system and replace them.
Ignition Timing Check, 316i, 318i models before August 1993 only
Warm up the engine. The operating temperature is reached from the moment the lower radiator water hose warms up. The oil temperature must exceed +60°C and the coolant temperature +80°C.
Zundverteiler - ignition distributor
BatterieanschluB der Zondblilzlampe - connecting a stroboscope to a battery
Ziindblitzlampe - stroboscope
Zundkabel fiir Zylinder 1 - cylinder 1 ignition wire
Zundkerze fur Zylinder 1 - cylinder 1 spark plug
Kapazitive Klemme von der Ziindblitzlampe - capacitive strobe terminal
Connect the speed meter and stroboscope according to the operating instructions.
Start the engine, leave it to idle.
Aim the stroboscope at the arrow on the timing case cover.
Caution: Be careful with rotating pulley and belt.
With a normally set ignition moment, the top dead center mark -1- must be stationary relative to the reference mark -2- (arrow on oil filter housing). When the top dead center mark is opposite the reference mark, the piston of cylinder 1 is in its highest position and ignition occurs.
Attention: Instead of the inscription from on the engines of the latest releases, there is only an inscription, which is located on the 3rd or 4th stroke on the right. To make it easier, you can first put a dot on the top dead center mark with white paint.