87 22R (carb). I appears that I have no vacuum advance. Checked timing this weekend and there is no difference with the vacuum hose disconnected frm the dist than when connected at idle, it's just 0 degrees. Seems to me that with vacuum connected to the dist diaphram that the timing should be 5 deg or so advanced at idle, right? How does a person go about checking the vacuum diaphram on the dist?

I've been experiencing backfire on startup and then flooding when it doesn't start. I think my carb may need some attention too. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />

Ok, I see in the FSM that you use a vacuum pump to test it. Since I don't have a vacuum pump, is there any other way?

vacuum gauge is the best way to check it. you might be able to rent one at your local Advance or Autozone.

other than that, you could try sucking on the tube, but I don't recommend it.

chances are that if this is the original distributor/vacuum advance unit, that both diaphragms are torn/rotted. it's been my experience that you need both of these working correctly to get proper timing and driveability out of the carbed setup. I struggled with my Weber setup until I figured this part out.

I think you can still get the whole distributor & vacuum module for around $150 from Advance. the vacuum advance module alone was over $100 when I priced it out about 6 years ago.

they still have them, and now you can get the whole thing for $98.

1987 Toyota 22r Distributor and Vacuum Advance from Advance Auto Parts

thanks yodta - think I have a spare dist somehwere and should try it to see if it's OK . But it's nice to know there is a new part for replacement.

if there's a Harbor Freight tools near you and you can swing it, they have a couple of different vacuum pumps and gauges you can get.

Vacuum Pump w/Brake Bleed Kit;$24.99



Fuel Pump & Vacuum Tester;$12.99

Well I discovered that both vacuum diaphrams are shot, neither hold vacuum. So I just plugged the vacuum lines for now. Checked prices on a vacuum diaphram part number VC357 and the cheapest I could find was $102. Guess I'll have to get the whole distributer as yodta has pointed out. Oh btw, that spare dist I have is from an 85 that had EFI.

Thanks again for the additional info, I do have a vacuum guage and found that the manifold vacuum is fine. Carb seems to be working fine too. I'll have to check into that vac pump @ HF. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

Yodta, The dist you posted up says it comes without the module. What is the "module"? Is it the electronic pickup inside?

I think they might be talking about the ignitor? not sure.

I'm pretty sure this is the same exact one I bought, and that it came ready to bolt in with the except of cap & rotor button.

you could get them to order it for you, and then check it out when it arrives and if it's not right, just return it on the spot.

yes - it looks like the control module of the igniter.
Holy Cow!! those modules are pricey with a capital P! $300+ bones.