4 degree timing difference?

Question

Today I checked my timing and it was at 8, which the specs say should be at 12. So I changed it. Recently I've noticed that I have been only getting like 17-20 mpg, and thats with a little 4 cylinder. Could the 4 degree difference explain my gas consumption, and should I be able to notice any more power? Though I will say that the car noticably idles smoother.

Answer 1

Yes, but make sure there is less weight in the car. More weight means more gas consumption too.

Answer 2

You might want to consider putting a new timing belt in it. If it was out by 4 degrees, you must think that is because the belt has stretched. You would notice a loss of power, more fuel consumption, and the idle speed being different. Timing does not change on its own, as far as the base timing goes. Does it have a spout that is near the distributor that has to be remove to set the timing? It kind of looks like a fuse in a pigtail that just hangs there. If you do, then you need to remove it, set the timing, and put it back in. Anytime you increase the ignition timing on any engine it will run faster and have more power up to a point. Engines are set lower at the factory to make them run hotter thus cleaner. A few degrees will make it run much better, but it also increases your emissions when you need to have an inspection (if you have inspections) done.
A worn out timing belt will change the timing by about 4 degrees. A worn out timing belt will make the timing read out by about 4 degrees. A worn out timing belt will make your power go to the dogs. A worn out timing belt will make your vehicle get poor gas mileage. I would conclude by saying, you have a worn out timing belt, and if you don't change it very soon, you can expect to have it jump teeth, pistion hit the valves, warp the valves, in some cases knock a hole in the pistion, and in severe cases totally ruin the engine, so replace the timing belt, or expect to have severe problems very soon.
Glad I could Help. Good Luck!!!

Answer 3

Timing is an important factor of your engines performance for many reasons and is recommended as per manufacturers specifications. Timing sets when the number one piston reaches top dead center on the compression stroke with both intake and exhaust valves closed etc. Location of the crank, cam etc. just to be brief.
Set correctly you will notice better idling and performance. Fuel economy could vary from many things such as worn engine parts, dirty Carburetor or fuel injectors too. I would recommend after timing the engine to replace the spark plugs, plug wires, rotor cap, PCV valve and air filter. This should also improve performance and enhance your fuel economy. This is only good for an engine that is squared away mechanically. Hope this helps. Good luck!

Answer 4

4 degrees will make a big difference in fuel consumption and performance.

Answer 5

did you pull and plug the vacuum line to your distributor to see the true setting, it's a common mistake. yes, 4 degrees is a noticeable amount .

Answer 6

yes it makes a difference when i put a timeing belt on my Dodge Omni i was off 4degree it ran but the gas miles was really bad
they i took it in the shop and they fixed it for me