Honda's B18B1 engines are part of the company's B-series line. The B18B1 has 140 horsepower and a bore-stroke ratio of 3.5 inches to 3.2 inches. The small but efficient engine was installed in several different models of Honda vehicles manufactured during the 1990s. Checking and altering the ignition timing of a B18B1 can improve its efficiency and longevity.
Align the crankshaft pulley timing marker with the timing indicator. Turn the crank until the dots imprinted on both the timing market and timing indicator line up at the 12 o'clock position.
Attach the black and red clips of the timing light to the corresponding red and black terminals on the battery.
Attach the third wire -- the timing light's spark plug lead -- to the notch on the "number one" spark plug. Locate the notch visually or by running your finger along its circumference.
Start the vehicle and let it run until the engine warms up.
Shine the timing light on the crankshaft pulley. Read the pulley's timing mark to determine the "before dead top center" (BDTC) value, which is factory set at 12 degrees.
Disconnect the vacuum hose.
Loosen the distributor hold down bolt and rotate the distributor to adjust the timing, keeping an eye on the timing marker to gauge BTDC.
Refasten the distributor hold down bolt when the adjustment is completed. Replace the distributor cap and remove the timing light.
