I just recently replaced my timing chain guides and during the reassembly, I turned the motor to tdc, inserted the distributor the proper way with the rotor all set up. I started the truck and just started turning the distributor by ear/throttle response. The distributor is currently rotated all the way to the left (which I'm assuming is advanced), but I still have a bog around 1/4. I don't have a timing light. What am I doing wrong?

 

you really need a timing light.

do you have an Autozone or other parts shop that loans tools?

 

I do not. I have my uncle checking for one now. I'm just trying to get it running better tonight because I have school in the morning.

 

If you can't set the timing and idle by ear and or your not confident enough to do so get a timing light.

 

Setting the timing properly will require a timing light AND jumpering the appropriate terminals in the diagnostic check connector as well as a properly adjusted throttle position sensor.
However, if you did the chain properly and inserted the distributor properly, correct timing should be at approximately 1/2 of the distributor's adjustment, give or take a millimeter or two, probably just a tad clockwise from mid-adjustment.

 

I just re-timed my ignition and turns out my distributor was 1 tooth off. If you follow the FSM instructions for installing a distributor you can get close, but to nail it you'll need a timing light. What confused me at first was that when you install the distributor the rotor should point straight up. Since I'm still somewhat of a newbe to yotas and most vehicles the distributor installs more or less vertical then what is "up" ? But with the 22re the distributor shaft installs horizontal therefore "up" makes sense; its at 12:00. But since the gears are helical, as you push it all the way in it rotates to the #1 plug position. Then just line up the rotor tooth with the signal generator projection and tighten her down.

http://www.ncttora.com/fsm/1993/ignition/5distribu.pdf