distributor problem

[PKRWUD]

The timing won't advance. The SPOUT connector is kinda like a fusible link between the ECM and the ignition system. The advent of the ECM eliminated both vacuum and mechanical advances for the ignition, and gave the ECM complete control. Problem is, how do you set it if the ECM is always trying to control it? That's why they created the SPOUT connector. When you unplug it, you are disconnecting the ECM from the ignition system, and putting the engine into a form of open loop. FWIW, there is another very convenient byproduct of having the SPOUT connector so easily removed; You can often quickly determine if an idle problem is due to a mechanical problem or an ECM controlled problem. For example, when Joe was having that nightmare with his engine falling flat at 1/4 throttle, the possibilities seemed endless. Everything from bad O2 sensors to valves out of adjustment was suggested. I asked him to remove the SPOUT connector and then see if the problem was any different. He did, and the answer was no, it didn't seem to affect things. That immediately told me it wasn't anything to do with the ECM. It wasn't the MAF, it wasn't the O2 sensors, it wasn't the IAC, it wasn't the TPS, etc. I knew then it had to be a mechanical failure. As it turned out, the problem was a coil that had developed way too much resistance. A mechanical failure.

So, to answer your question, the ECM will not be able to control the engine properly if the SPOUT connector is left out for the test drive.



Take care,
~Chris