Turbo
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Category: Engine Control
The distributor in the Turbo 2.3s has a "Hall Effect" solid state sensor in it called the PIP (Profile Ignition Pickup).
The PIP sends a square wave signal to the TFI (Thick Film Ignition) module on the side of the distributor. The PIP signal is wave shaped and amplified by the TFI.
Then it is sent to the EEC on the "PIP" line, and used by the EEC for several functions. For ignition, the PREVIOUS PIP signal is delayed to become the CURRENT spark signal. It is then returned to the TFI on the EEC's SPOUT line. Whn you remove the SPOUT connector, you effectively defeat the EEC's control over engine timing. So you are at base timing as determined by the physical phasing of the distributor to the crank.
Quick check: Warm up motor Pull spout connector near distributor out. Check timing, should be 10 degrees BTDC on all except 5 speed Merkur XR4tis (13). Plug in SPOUT connector. Timing should jump to roughly 30 degrees BTDC.
If it only goes to 20 then you have a failing TFI. They sorta run good like this, when you advance the base timing to about 20 :) Just be sure to carry a spare TFI , and the little wrench, in the car.
Note: The PIP signal is used to fire the injectors, so if the PIP dies completely, no spark, no fuel.