Chrysler Repair: ignition timing on 3.0L V-6, coolant temp, temporary fault

Question
Hi, Roland,
It's been a while since I've fooled with cars, so pardon me if my question is elementary. I just replaced the valve cover gaskets on my '95 LeBaron 3.0, and in doing so, had to remove the distributor to gain clearance. I marked it, of course, and had no problem re-installing it and the car runs fine. But I'm curious about the ignition timing, as there appears to be a tube instead of a mark on the damper and scale like we had "back in the day." Can I use my old timing light, or do I need to get with the times and purchase some newfangled device? What's the procedure? (The data plate calls for 12 degrees BTDC) Thank you, sir!
Jim

Answer
Hi Jim,
The tube is for a magnetic sensor electronic timing unit. You don't have to use it though. There should be scale next to the tube and a timing mark on the pulley. So use the timing light, only be sure to have the engine warmed up, and to remove the plug on the coolant temp sensor (next to the thermostat housing (the fan will come on)), and then check to see if is it 12 BTDC. You will have caused a temporary fault code relating to the coolant sensor which will go away on it own in 50-100 ignition key cycles.
Roland