adjustable distributor

[rice]

hey guys, my dx came with an adjustable distributor, but i didn't noticed this untill my cousin told me (im noobie to cars) so anyways, what does this "adjustable" distributor do? how can i adjust it? is it safe? and how can you tell if its an "adjustable" distributor, because i took a look at mine and my cousin's non-adjustable distributor and i can't really tell the difference. I've also attached a picture, my engine looks similiar to this

btw, where does the name 4AFE came from? how do you determine if it's a 4AFE, thanks in advance

[toyotaspeed90]

it advances/retards your timing.... all distributors are like this....... i wouldn't change it unless you know what you're doing

[94_Rolla_Guy]

yeah it adjusts the timming, the issue is if its to retarded the car will lose all power, over advanced it will surge and lean-ping good chance you'll totally screw the engine...

as for 4A-FE the 4A is the block code and the FE is the head code if you wanna know more about the codes google "toyota engine codes"

as for figuring out which one you have, look at the front of the block right beside the transmission about halfway up