Recently my car suddenly went from running perfect, to running really bad. It's knocking, pinging, has lack of power, but is not missing. I checked the timing with the EST connected and it is at 10* btdc, which is where its supposed to be with the EST disconnected. So there is no change in engine speed or timing with the EST connected or disconnected now so the engine wont automatically advance.

Anyone else ever had this problem? I think it might be the ignition module. Can anyone confirm?

 

Well, when you plug in the EST, it should advance to like 30deg or something like that, so its definitely not getting controlled by the computer. I will let some other people chime in, but I think your headed in the right direction.

 

Does the base timing stay put where you have it set? Meaning, after you run the car and unplug the EST do you still see 10° base? If not than you may have a bad balancer. This is assuming you do not have a loose distributor.

 

Yes, the base timing will always stay at 10 after running the car, and it stays at 10 regardless of whether or not the EST is connected.

 

Well I replaced the ignition control module today and it did not fix the problem. Could it be the ECM?

 

Haha I tried it again and it's working now. I guess it was the ignition control module after all. Thanks to those who replied.