Land Rover Repair: Timing For 94 Discovery, air conditioning compressor, timing purposes

Question
John,

I recently purchased a '94 Discovery and have been trying to figure out a starting issue it has. When I try to start it, it takes three attempts to get it to fire. And then only if I pump the gas a bit. Usually on Fuel Injected motors, there should be no need for pumping the gas. Once it fires up, it sounds like a couple of the cylinders are a bit fouled out, but they clear up within a few seconds. (As if they were just a bit flooded.) I've done a tune-up, plugs, wires, cap and rotor. Still have the problem. I've tested the fuel pressure at the fuel rail, and I'm getting a steady 40psi. I wanted to see if maybe the timing was off, but haven't been able to find what the timing is supposed to be. So what is the timing supposed to be for a 1994 Discovery?

Thanks in Advance,
T

Answer
Hi TJ,

timing for 3.9 litre engine is 6°BTDC (statically).

Here's what LR has to say:

Service repair no - 86.35.15
Ignition Timing
Adjust
1. It is essential that following procedures are adhered to. Inaccurate timing can lead to serious engine damage and additionally create failure to comply with emission regulations. If timing is being checked in vehicle, air conditioning compressor must be disengaged.
2. On initial engine build, or if distributor has been disturbed for any reason, ignition timing must be set statically to 6°B.T.D.C.

NOTE: This approximate setting is made only to ensure that engine may be started.
CAUTION: On no account must engine be started before this operation is carried out.

(Equipment required :-Calibrated Tachometer Stroboscopic lamp)

3. Couple stroboscopic timing lamp and tachometer to engine following manufacturer's instructions.
4. Disconnect vacuum hose from distributor.
5. Start engine. With no load, and without exceeding 3,000 rev/min run engine until normal operating temperature is reached. (Thermostat open). Check that engine idles within tolerance specified in data section.
6. Idle speed for timing purposes must not exceed 800 rev/min.
7. Run engine at idle speed and check timing using stroboscope light on timing marker and pointer.

WARNING: Keep hands and equipment away from belt.

8. If timing is not as specified, switch off engine. Loosen distributor clamp bolt and turn distributor to advance or retard ignition as necessary.

Tighten clamp bolt, start engine and recheck timing.

WARNING: Personal injury may result if an attempt is made to adjust distributor whilst engine is running.

9. Upon completion, switch off engine and retighten distributor clamping bolt securely. Recheck timing, to ensure retightening has not disturbed distributor position.
10. Refit vacuum hose.
11. Disconnect stroboscopic timing lamp and tachometer from engine.

Best of luck,

JohnMc