General information
The vehicles in question are equipped with an electronic ignition system, which is controlled by the engine's processor unit. On 1997-00 CR-V and Odyssey 2.2/2.3L models with distributor ignition, idle ignition timing is allowed (basic ignition setup) by switching the processor unit to the adjustment mode. On Odyssey V6 3.5L models, only the ignition timing can be checked independently, which can only be done at a service center. If the ignition timing on these engines is incorrect, the ignition circuit and sensors should be checked. If the sensors are working properly, then the processor unit needs to be replaced. To check and set the ignition timing on engines with a distributor, there are timing marks that are applied to the crankshaft pulley. These marks align with the pointer on the cover next to the pulley. The two timing marks are differently coloured: the white mark corresponds to TDC and the red mark is used to set the ignition at idle speed.
On CR-V and 4-cylinder Odyssey 2.2L and 2.3L models, normal engine rotation is counterclockwise (if you look from the pulley side). On these engines the red alignment mark is located to the left of the white one (if you look from the pulley side). On both sides of the red mark there are marks indicating the ignition timing range, and are located at intervals of 2°. For example, if the ignition timing angle should be 16±2° and if the pointer falls within this range, then the ignition timing is normal.
Adjustment (cR-V and 4-cylinder Odyssey models only)
1. Set the gearshift lever to neutral position.
2. Warm up the engine. When the engine has cooled down, close the heater valve and increase the engine speed to 3000 rpm until the cooling system fan turns on for the first time. Stop the engine. Make sure all consumers are turned off.
3. Using a paper clip, short-circuit the blue terminals of the diagnostic connector.
The diagnostic connector on the CR-V is located on the passenger side under the dashboard (one wire is brown, the other is black). On 4-cylinder Odysseys, the connector is also located on the passenger side under the dash (one wire is brown, with black stripes, the other is red).
4. Connect the strobe light. Check idle speed if necessary. Start the engine.
5. Point the strobe light at the mark on the crankshaft pulley. The red mark must be aligned with the pointer on the camshaft timing belt cover.
6. If necessary, set the ignition timing by turning the distributor with the bolts loosened.
The ignition timing angle should be
| on CR-V 1997-98 model | 14-18° at 700-800 rpm |
| on CR-V 1999-00 model | 14-18° at 680-780 rpm |
| on 4-cylinder Odyssey 2.2L | 13-17° at 650-750 rpm |
| on 4-cylinder Odyssey 2.3L | 10-14° at 650-750 rpm |
7. When finished, tighten the distributor mounting bolts to 24 Nm and remove the jumper.
 |
 |