EST Wire

In the repair manuals it states that to set timing on my 95, 3.1, APV i must disconnect the EST wire. It states the wire is tan w/a white stripe located near the left strut tower and shows the tower with the emission control info sticker. I have searched both strut towers and all over my engine compartment and cannot find a tan wire w/a white stripe anywhere. I tried setting time anyway and the timing mark on the balancer is no where near the saw tooth marks. In an attempt to get it to the saw tooth guage it would sound like the engine would die. For now I found both extremes in adjustment before it dies and found middle ground. Basically timing by sound. Is disconnecting the EST wire the step that get the mark and guage in the right range? Do I need to look elsewhere? Am I blind?

thanks

EST stands for Electronic Spark Timing, so the computer is advancing the timing, screwing up your attempts to set the static timing. I happen to have a Haynes manual here at work, and it says to consult the VECI (Vehicle Emissions Certification Information) label for location and color of the EST ground terminal. This label is usually either on the underside of the hood, or along the radiator shroud/header panel. At the ignition module, terminal A is the EST circuit. This terminal receives the signal from the ECM to trigger the module. Without setting the base timing correctly, the entire advance curve will be off, possibly to the point of causing a no-start situation. I don't have a scanner here at work, but if you have a fax machine, I can copy the page I'm referencing and fax it to you. PM me before 5:00 EST if you need me to do so.

Thanks Rich, I also have that manual and must be qoting the Chiltons. I will check for the VECI stick on for more info. I go back and forth between the two manuals becuase as in this case, info isn't always complete or as clear as it could be.

AMEN to that brother. It seems both miss certain info. I bought a factory service manual set for my car (I plan on driving it into the ground) and although there is a lot of info, it's not worded for the novice mechanic. Sometimes it makes my head hurt, and I'm no novice.