Adjusting the ignition timing of a 2.0-liter engine (VW Sharan 1)

The ignition of the 2.0-liter engine is adjusted when the engine is idling. The adjustment primarily means the correct position of the ignition distributor, since it is the one that determines the ignition timing. To check the ignition timing on the car, there is a scale with a tongue on the flywheel housing and a mark on the flywheel. One division of the scale corresponds to 1° of crankshaft rotation. When the mark on the flywheel is aligned with the tongue, the piston of the first cylinder is at TDC.

Adjust the ignition timing in the following order:

• check engine idle speed;
• connect the "+" clamp of the stroboscope to the "+" terminal of the battery, the "ground" clamp to the "–" terminal of the battery, and connect the clamp of the stroboscope sensor to the high voltage wire of the first cylinder;
• start the engine and direct the flashing beam of the strobe light into the flywheel housing hatch. When the engine is idling, the position of the mark on the flywheel should be between 5° and 8°;
• if it is necessary to adjust the ignition timing, loosen the ignition distributor and turn it so that the ignition timing is 6°;
• tighten the distributor fastening and check the ignition timing again;
• disconnect the strobe light clamps.

More precise setting of the ignition timing can only be carried out using special equipment at a service station.