How far forward is the computer supposed to advance the timing? I was checking my timing today with the EST connector disconnected. It is exactly 0*. However, I hooked the EST connector back up and decided to check the timing again. This time the timing was almost off the gauge on the timing cover. I gave it some throttle and was checking the timing simultaneously and noticed that the timing mark wasn't even registering. Is this normal for a stock chip?

 

Sounds about right to me. The ECM throws in a ton of timing, even at idle, over the base setting. That's why it's so important to unplug the timing wire when setting base timing- you can imagine how far off it would be if you didn't!

 

Timing is typically 20+ degrees total, even at idle.

Only at WOT less than 2000 or so rpms should timing ever be less than "past the marker".

 

All right, thanks guys. I appreciate the insight. I have been trying to get this car to pass smog for a while now. Finally got a new cat for it to be welded in, and just recently put my stock chip in. I am just trying to make sure everything is running right before dumping some more money on a smog test.