Date:         Mon, 25 Aug 1997 10:50:42 -0600
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@vanagon.com>
From:         Eric Small <Eric_Small@AMRCORP.COM>
Subject:      Re: Vanagon Ignition Timing

Tom Brunson wrote:
>Working with my 87 & 91 Vanagons I've been surprised how sensitive they are to
>slight changes in ignition timing. After timing a replacement engine "by the
>book" (5 deg. BTDC) one car had terrible low-end response, feeling very dead
>when starting from a stop until the engine hit over 3000 rpm. Advancing the
>timing 2-3 deg more made a huge difference in throttle response.
>
>I wonder if the specs are that far off, or if the pulley timing marks are very
>reliable compared to the flywheel TDC sensor used by VW to do timing.
>
>Anyone else care to say what timing they find best?
>
>Tom

Tom,

I have experienced the same results when adjusting the timing on my '86.  I have
been told by a VW mechanic that it is not possible to accurately adjust the
timing without the required diagnostic equipment.  I guess it is not as straight
forward a process as one would expect -idle at 2000RPMs, acessories off, several
engine sensors unplugged-. I ended up adjusting it by ear to where it performed
best without knock. In fact, I believe that I have adjusted mine with
considerable ?? advance but it runs !extremely strong! without any knocking.  I
do now run premium (93) fuel in it now just to insure against knock.

Mine GL is a completely stock auto trans set up- but with it tuned like this I
have noticed a perpensity to turn the tires on damp/wet/sandy pavement. Actually
brought the rear around once leaving a parking lot.  This is with good Michlin
XGTV 215/65VR15 tires.

Could anybody out there advise me (us) what dangers might result from my state
of tune? Obviously I like the power but I dont want to hurt anything (long term)
either.

Eric
'86 GL (toaster-oven)
'93 Audi 100