Ok, so I just installed an AEM EMS 1052U and one of the installation steps says:
"g) Verify the ignition timing: Select the “Configure” drop down menu, then “ECU Setup | Set Ignition”. Use a timing light and compare the physical engine timing to the parameter “Ignition Timing” displayed. Use the “Advance/Retard” buttons to make the timing number match."

The problem here is that I don't have a timing light. I will happily get one today to do it, but will the car be fine to drive to the store without doing the step? Mind you the store is <5 miles from my house and I would baby it the whole way...

If I can't drive the car it will be pretty difficult to get there as I won't have access to another car until tomorrow...

Anyways, please advise as if I'll be ok.

The car seems to be running "ok". Definitely not running horrible. Just worried I would mess something up somehow by driving it without doing that step.

Btw, the car is still NA right now (turbo kit on the way) and is just running on the base tune.

Please let me know ASAP.

Thanks,
-Will

 

If it were me, I would just retard the timing by 10 degrees, then drive to the store.

 

I thought about that, but didn't know if it would run like complete crap. Thanks.

 

That depends on what you consider to be "complete crap". I believe it will just be slow.

 

Complete crap like it would idle/run rough and/or stall. Idc if it's slow I wasn't planning on going WOT or anything, lol.

Thanks though, I'll probably just do that.

 

You'll be ok. Drive average, not WOT, even if timing is off, it's off by a degree at the most, maybe 2. So no biggie.

 

Honestly. You will be fine. Don't worry about it. If anything take 2 degrees out and add 5% fuel tops. Use common sense

 

Doing an ignition timing sync with an AEM EMS equipped F20/22 engine is not needed as the cam & crank sensors are not adjustable on these engines. The Timing Sync function, and hence the inclusion in the instructions, is meant for those engines with cam/crank adjustments - i.e. B18, DSM 4G63, Nissan SR20.

You could always get a timing light to double check but I have always found the timing dead on when checked.