Timing problems on the "Buck-Fiddy"

[Primo]

I just got my first Festiva, a 92 EFI 5-speed with no options, and have been doing a basic tune up to it. I switched the plugs, wires, cap, rotor, air filter,pcv valve and changed all the fluids. I went to time it today and after I finally found and marked the timing marks it jumps around when I shoot it with the timing light. Its varying several degrees in both directions as close as I can tell. Anyone got any ideas? Also what exactly does grounding the STI plug do?


I call it the buck fifty cause that's how much I got it for.


Thanks,
Primo

[funky technician]

mine did that too, it was hunting back and forth, but at least it at 10 degrees most of the time :lol: but I think I have a vacume leak, my idle is pretty eratic

[Primo]

I asked one of the mechanics where I work if he had any ideas and he suggested the timing belt might be loose or stretched.

[mechanicaldj]

grounding the STI will stop the computer from advancing and retarding the timing as it sees fit

[Primo]

I did that and it still jumped around, but I'll give it another go tom morrow.

Thanks,
Primo

[mechanicaldj]

sure you have the right wire?

[Primo]

The black single connector one kinda below the brake reservoir right? I downloaded the ford manual and was going off of it.

Primo

[mechanicaldj]

on some festys there are two in close proximity

[Primo]

I have another single pin connector in that area but it is white.

[Tom]

Timing lights dance a little.