Car: 91 hicas hatch, Bone stock KA

Ok probably a noob question, but I've never had to do it EVER, so no knowledge. Should I be able to adjust the distributor with the engine running WITHOUT getting the shit shocked out of me? Or do I have a grounding problem?

 

you will be fine just retarding or advancing the timing w/motor on or off. Just dont pull it out to adjust it w/keys in on position.

 

yeah, you should be able to adjust your timing with the engine running. I used to do it all of the time depending on where I would buy gas and what grade I would get... probably overkill, but I like to tinker. lol.

if you are getting shocked, then the insulation on your wires is going bad.
Either replace them, or wrap them all up in electrical tape. Not a permanent fix, but it will buy you some time.

 

Could this be what's causing my low/rough idle and hesitation while accelerating? All my sensors have checked out, so I'm out of things to check lol.

 

haha yea if you grab your dizzy and your wires are bad you will get shocked been there done that lol..
just replace your wires (dont be cheap) and you wont get shocked anymore and yes it should fix you rough idle and slugness

 

yeah, cause if that spark is finding its way to your hands, then it is also finding its way to every other piece of metal near it.

if you want to be sure before spending the money on decent wires, wrap them up in electrical tape. If it makes it better, then you know that was the problem. But 97.392% sure your problems are from your wires.

 

^will do, thanks you guys