Checking and adjusting the ignition timing (VW Transporter T3)

The ignition timing needs to be adjusted only after removing the ignition distributor or performing work on the distributor ignition, since the transistor ignition system; maintains the ignition timing constant.

To check and adjust the ignition timing, you will need a rev counter and a stroboscope.



Warm up the engine to operating temperature. Operating temperature is reached as soon as the water hose at the bottom of the radiator becomes warm. The oil temperature on a carburetor engine is not less than +60°C, and on an injection engine not less than +80°C.

Turn off the lights, air conditioning,

Connect the RPM meter and stroboscope according to their operating instructions.



The original information is posted on the website: vwmanual

Attention: Engines 06, 6W (57 kW/66 kW): Disconnect the vacuum hoses of the vacuum diaphragm from the ignition distributor and close them, see the table of ignition timing. First mark the hoses for subsequent installation on those fittings.

All engines except for GW indexes produced before 6.84, DG, MV: Disconnect the connectors of the stabilization system switching unit: idle mode and connect them together.

Ignition system TSZ-H (except MV engine): Start the engine and let it idle.

Digifant System (engine index MV): Disconnect the blue connector from the temperature sensor. The temperature sensor is located on the cooling system pipe near the spark plug tips. Leave the engine running at 2250±50 rpm.

Point the stroboscope at the crankshaft pulley and the line where the two halves of the engine crankcase join.

Caution: Be careful when the pulley and belt are rotating.

When the ignition timing is set correctly, the slot on the pulley, when illuminated by a stroboscope, should be opposite the mark on the engine crankcase.

To set the required ignition timing, slightly loosen the bolt and turn the ignition distributor until the specified value is set. To turn the distributor with a transistor ignition system, lightly tap the vacuum membrane with a screwdriver.

Tighten the bolt to a torque of 25 Nm.

Check idle speed adjustment.

Finally, check the ignition timing adjustment again.

Turn off the measuring instruments.

Connect the vacuum hose to the ignition distributor and the connector to the temperature sensor.


Connect the connectors of the idle speed control system switching unit.

Set ignition timing values