How to Adjust the Timing in a Honda Prelude

Adjusting the timing on a Honda Prelude requires special tools and a clear understanding of engine mechanics. Changing the timing to add aftermarket performance parts or improving fuel economy is a common reason for adjusting the timing on a Honda Prelude. This guide covers adjusting the timing on a Honda Prelude with fuel injection and a distributor.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Timing light
• Wrenches

1. Turn the engine on and turn off any accessories such as lights, climate control and the radio. Allow the car to reach normal operating temperature and shut off the engine.

2. Locate the crankshaft pulley and clean off any dirt or grime to expose the timing marks. Attach the timing light to the battery if necessary and then to the number one ignition wire at the far driver's side on four cylinder engine and at the back passenger side on six cylinder engines.

3. Start the car and rev the motor three times for one second each. Let it idle for two minutes. Point the timing light at the crankshaft pulley and determine the amount of adjustment required.

4. Loosen the distributor mounting bolts and rotate the distributor until the crankshaft timing line matches the middle mark on the timing light. Tighten the distributor mounting bolts and recheck the timing.

5. Shut the engine off and remove the timing light. Reconnect the number one ignition wire.

Tips & Warnings

• Forcing an engine to run out of its manufactured specified setting can cause serious and permanent damage to the engine.
• Never pierce the ignition wire as misfiring or crossfiring may result.

Resources

• Timing lights and accessories
• More Honda Cars

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