If I in any way improperly installed a new tps in my 4runner, will that affect proper timing adjustment on the the distributor? Some things I have read dictate a link of circuitry between the tps and timing and/or timing advance.

 

If the throttle position sensor is improperly installed it should keep the throttle open and when you start your truck, should rev high. It does bolt to the side of the throttle body that is closest to the cab.

 

The TPS tells the ECM when it is at IDLE (it also conveys throttle position information). When you set the BASE timing (the jumper is to tell the ECM to not apply adjustments, so that you can set the timing), it has to be at idle as indicated by the TPS.

So if the TPS is installed incorrectly, you may not be able to set the ignition timing in the first place.