How To Set The Timing For A 1984 Dodge Charger

There are times when you need to know how to set timing for a 1994 Dodge Charger. The 1984 Dodge Charger runs a four cylinder Peugeot derived engine and if you find the timing is incorrect, for example, it overheats, runs badly and has excessive fuel consumption. As long as the spark plugs are creating a good enough spark and there is fuel getting to the carburetor then you can go ahead and use this guide on how to remedy the problem.

Tools needed:

• A timing light
• An assistant
• Spark plug removal socket
• 19mm wrench

1. Using your owner's handbook, locate cylinder one on your Dodge's engine. You will also need to know the firing order of the spark plugs in order to get the timing just right. On many four cylinder engines, the firing order is 1-3-4-2.
2. Label the spark plug wires and remove them from the distributor cap. Remove the distributor cap by un-clipping the hooks which hold it down. Inspect the distributor cap for any cracks or condensation, if any are found, replace the cap at this point.
3. Now you need to set cylinder 1 at top dead center (TDC). You can do this by removing the HT lead from cylinder one and then remove the spark plug. Using a long thin object (a screwdriver for example) put it in the hole and it will rest on top of the piston. Turn the engine by hand using the crankshaft pulley and a 19mm wrench until the screwdriver end reaches its highest point. This is TDC.
4. On the crankshaft pulley there is a notch cut out and there are timing marks on the engine block. Mark the notch with some white paint. Using a timing gun, fit the wire to the battery lead and the other wire to the ignition coil. This has created a circuit. Refit the distributor cap and make sure the HT leads are on correctly.
5. Have an assistant start the engine while you hold the timing light over the crankshaft pulley and timing marks. Loosen the distributor body retaining clamp slightly. Holding the timing light in one hand, turn the distributor cap/body until the timing marks line up with the white paint. You will hear the engine note change and this is correcting the ignition timing.
6. If you hear any pinging then you have adjusted the timing too far. Turn the distributor back slightly until the noise disappears. Turn the engine off and refit the coil plug to complete the job.