Timing issue...

Well where to start?

88 CRX Si
Dist has been replaced w/oem and computer replaced
New cap and rotor (rotor is tight)
New NGK plugs
fat 10mm plug wires
Timing is supposed to be 18 +-2 w/timing connector jumpered. @750rpm
Problem is I can't turn the distributor any more to get it to 18 degrees
It is at 22degrees and is backfiring when off then on the gas.

Can the fat wires cause timing advance?
Anymore ideas on what else to check???
No, check engine light is not on and it works.

THX
SH

Timing belt is probably a tooth or two off.

Timing belt is probably a tooth or two off.
Thanks SC
I checked the timing belt and it looks new but the dummy that changed it might of missed a tooth. No it wasn't me..

SH

That's funny cause my car has been running really rough after I replaced my dizzy. We timed it right though with the red dot but the car runs like shit. Maybe my belt skipped a tooth or something too. I've been told the car still has the original belt in it so I'm sure it needs replacing.

Thanks SC
I checked the timing belt and it looks new but the dummy that changed it might of missed a tooth. No it wasn't me..

SH
Hit the nail on the head "BING" One tooth off, Also the belt is loose. The new Q is can I repl the spring for the tensioner w/o pulling the bottom cover, and should I repl the whole tensioner It is a metal gear.
Thanks again SC

BTW; Just went through the manual and.. The tensioner does not run with the spring involved. How U set the tension is loosen the tensioner bolt and slowly turn the crank counterclockwise only 1/2" and then retighten the bolt. DONE and gone SH