I want to adjust my timing but have no idea about the specs.I think the timing is retarded a bit.

probably retard it a bit but I don't think it is the timing
You say it runs and backfires but if the timing was too far advanced it would backfire on starting and be difficult to start
I suspect the fault to be electronic ---like a loose wire on the coil , faulty coil, faulty ignition control module, loose wire at ignition switch, loose ground wire , loose ground wire on battery
look for something that is making and breaking contact at random as that action induces a spark at the wrong time

Timing is retarded. Check the fly wheel for any loose motion

More than likely you have an valve clearance issue and not a carb issue. You can test compression to confirm this. If compression is low you can look into getting the valves ground down a bit to gain clearance and correct your problem. If compression tests good think ignition timing and check the flywheel key for damage. A bad magneto that is not retarding timing at idle may also be the issue. also easy and relatively cheap to fix. Good luck and be safe!

Hello theman022002,

Your description would indicate that the timing is off. Possibly when you installed the new distributor you were off a tooth or two. Turning the distributor Will Not adjust the timing.

You will need to reinstall the distributor with every thing set to top dead center, then follow the steps below to set the proper cam retard offset.

Good Luck.

Ignition Timing: Adjustments

TEST PROCEDURE
The ignition timing cannot be adjusted. The distributor may need adjusting to prevent crossfire. To insure proper alignment of the distributor, perform the following:

1. With the ignition OFF, connect the scan tool.
2. Start the engine. Allow the engine to idle until the engine reaches normal operating temperature.

IMPORTANT: Cam retard Offset reading will not be accurate below 1,000 RPM.

3. Increase engine speed to 1,000 RPM while performing the following steps.
4. Use the scan tool in order to monitor the Cam retard Offset.
5. If the Cam retard indicates a value of 0 degrees, the distributor is properly adjusted.
6. If the Cam retard does not indicate 0 degrees, the distributor must be adjusted.

ADJUSTING PROCEDURE
1. With the engine OFF, slightly loosen the distributor hold down bolt.

IMPORTANT: Cam retard Offset reading will not be accurate below 1,000 RPM.

2. Start the engine and raise the engine speed to 1,000 RPM.
3. Use the scan tool in order to monitor the Cam retard Offset.
4. Rotate the distributor as follows:
a. To compensate for a negative reading, rotate the distributor in the counterclockwise direction.
b. To compensate for a positive reading, rotate the distributor in the clockwise direction.
5. Repeat step 4 until 0 degrees is obtained.
6. Turn OFF the ignition.

NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Cautions and Notices.

7. Tighten the distributor hold-down bolt to 3 N.M. (25 lb ft).
8. Start the engine.
9. Raise the engine speed to 1,000 RPM and with the scan tool view the Camshaft retard Offset to verify 0 degrees has been maintained.

Regards,
netvan

You no longer need to time engines like you use to in the old days. The computer advances and retards the timing depending on the information the computer is receiving from the sensors. Years ago you would adjust the distributor by twisting it while reading the degrees on the crankshaft sensor, with a timing light, and setting it to a desired spec. This is no longer necessary. Thanks and good luck :O)

P0010....'A' Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1)

P0011....'A' Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1)

P0012....'A' Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 1)

P0013....'B' Camshaft Position - Actuator Circuit (Bank 1)

P0014....'B' Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1)

P0015....'B' Camshaft Position -Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 1)

P0020....'A' Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 2)

P0021....'A' Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 2)

P0022....'A' Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 2)

P0023....'B' Camshaft Position - Actuator Circuit (Bank 2)

P0024....'B' Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 2)

P0025....'B' Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 2)

I think your sensors are pattern parts and the readings /resistances are not the same as the original parts ,try some bosch units is my first suggestion ,

Here is the master thread for you:

http://www.thumpertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=673641

and some info to start:

Table of Indicator Readings to Advance Specs.

.027 5 degrees advanced
.022 4 degrees advanced
.018 3 degrees advanced
.014 2 degrees advanced
.010 1 degree advanced
.007 Stock Setting
.004 1 degree retarded
.002 2 degrees retarded
.001 3 degrees retarded
.000 5 degrees retarded (the limit of travel of my stator)
-.001 7 degrees retarded (the 3 to 5 and 5 to 7 jump are correct due to rod angle)
-.002 8 degrees retarded

The 87 has a distributor? Just loosen up the bolt, and get a timing light on the crank pulley and watch it go, You want about 10 degrees before TDC. You will have to look up the exact amount. Hope this helps.

If anything with Honda's you wanna advance it and run decent gas. I used to advance it so far until it pings then back it off a little. Increased power AND gas mileage.

Vote for me.

normally when giving it a bit too much gas. I'm thinking it's timing related and have had a small mess around with it before. I've elongated the hole in the locking tab on the stator and advanced the timing slightly (roughly 1mm of rotation) this seemed to give me a little more top end but hasn't got rid of this anomoly. Compared to other 2 strokes I've ridden it refuses to start when given a wristful of throttle preferring to be started like a 4 stroke with little to no gas. It idles and runs perfectly so I don't think it's down to jetting, which is set to the recommended UK spec anyway - #7 slide, N1EF needle on 3rd clip, 40 pilot and 180 main. Plug always looks fine on removal. Should I give it a whirl trying it retarded from stock?,Most 2T's will occasionally give out a SPOOOT sound when kicking over, and then fire on the next kick. If its continous its definately carburation or timing. Do you have or use the ignition map switch ? Try starting it from cold in the 'wet' setting which I think retards the timing a bit. Retarding the timing further will make it even softer power wise. Reply With Quote,,,