How to tell if the timing is out on a 1997 gmc sonoma 4.3 vortec

SOURCE: 94 gmc sonoma 4.3l vortec new coil, plugs, wires

The ignition module in the distributor is what you need to give the engine spark to the plugs. It senses signals from the PCM to regulate the spark control and this item is the part that took over the old style point & condensor type ignitions. It is time for a new one in your truck

SOURCE: Need to remove the fan to replace the water pump

you need to get a fan clutch wrench to remove the fan you can get one at any local autozone or murphys parts stores

SOURCE: what is the fuel pump pressure for a vortec 4.3l

2.2L Vin 4.... 41-47 psi Ignition switch is on and fuel pump running
2.2L Vin 5 ... 55-60 psi " "
4.3L Vin W .. 60-66 psi " "
4.3L Vin X ... 60-66 psi " "

SOURCE: Installed new crate engine 1997 5.7 vortec, how do

The ignition timing is not adjusted with a timing light or with the engine running, and to set the ignition timing follow these proceedures.

There is a mark or notch on the distributor housing that the rotor should be pointing to when the engine is on top dead center. This "static" timing is all that matters and the computer will be able to control the timing as long as the ignition rotor is in that position when the engine is at top dead center.

1. Place the engine at top dead center.

2. Look under the distributor cap and find where the number one terminal runs under the distributor cap, and where that position on the distributor cap corresponds with the distributor housing, and it should match up to a mark or a notch on the distributor housing indicating the number one position.

3. With the engine on top dead center the ignition rotor should be pointing to the number one mark or notch that is on the distributor housing, if it is not then loosen up the distributor and turn the distributor until the ignition rotor is pointing to the mark or notch on the distributor housing and then tighten down the distributor, the engine should now be static timed.

If the distributor can not be turned enough to align the ignition rotor with the number one mark on the distributor housing, or the distributor does not set properly and will not allow the installation of the spark plug wires then the distributor is not installed correctly and is most likely a tooth off and it will need to be re-installed correctly. (The distributor should set like it is shown in the firing order diagram when it is properly installed)

Here is a firing order diagram to also help assist you.

SOURCE: how to set timing on a 1997 v6 4.3l gmc vortec

On the drives side long the fire wall on the harness, will be one wire from all the other ones, it could be brown or tan, disconnect the that wire, start engine and set timing, turn engine off reconnect wire and check timing again, should be advance now, also some times that will cause an engine light to come on, just disconnect battery for 15 sec. and computer is reset.