Ok. So I finally got the car running after these problems
https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/tech...e-33-42-a.html
(Was throwing code 33 and 42). Got the 33 code fixed, 42 is still flashing but read on.

Basically I regrounded the engine, put on the orig starter and got a new battery. now it starts right up and idles great....with spark advance off. With said spark advance off it also wont rev up past 1500. Its smooth from 800-~1450 then if you try to give it any more it doesnt make a difference. And if you really open her up It starts to backfire (exhaust) like crazy and the engine starts to shake. Its alomst like its hitting a rev limiter or something.

With the spark advance hooked up I cant even get it to idle. It will just die. Timing is Ok and fuel is Ok. I have tried setting the timing at TDC, 4, 6, 8, and 12 BTDC, disconnecting the battery, hooking it back up and trying to start it with the spark advance on and its the same thing.

Later on today I am going to be getting a vac gauge and a fuel press gauge. Im thinking I might have a vac leak or two causing the problem.

BTW the car is a 91 TA, Engine is an 89 350 TPI MAP (Speed Density)

 

As far as I know the advance is needed because as the rpms go up the spark has to come sooner because the engines spinning faster. So I'm thinking maybe that spark advance module is not working right if when you plug it in it doesn't run right. Anybody else wan't to confirm or deny my thoughts?

Also, Isn't that spark advanced controlled by a knock sensor? If so that could be seeing a knock or could be bad.

 

if you either unplugged the spark advance or plugged it in with the engine running (maybe even with the key in "on", I dont remember, but definately running), you run the risk of burning the ECM. I'm hoping this isn't what happened.

 

Are you setting the timing with the ESC connector unplugged? If not, you need to.

 

Timing is being set with the ESC unplugged. I never plugged in nor out the ESC with even the battery hooked up.

Where abouts should my timing be? How much BTDC while ESC is unplugged?

 

Base timing without the ESC should be between 0 and 10 degrees. My truck (90 TPI unit) ran best with base timing straight up at TDC.