What is the firing order for a 1988 Chevrolet V6 engine?

The firing order for the 1988 Chevrolet 4.3-liter V6 is 1-6-5-4-3-2.

This article explains what that means, how the cylinders are arranged on this engine, and how to wire the spark plugs and distributor correctly for that model year.

Engine context

In 1988 Chevrolet vehicles, the most common V6 was the 4.3-liter (262 cu in) V6. It is a 90-degree V6 that shares architecture with GM’s small-block V8 lineage. The firing order for this family is standard across most 4.3L engines, but the exact distributor location and spark-plug wiring routing can vary by model and body style. Always confirm with the specific service manual for your vehicle if you have a different configuration or a special edition.

Firing order sequence

To illustrate the ignition sequence clearly, the cylinders are listed in the order in which they fire. Use this order when wiring the distributor and spark plugs (or when diagnosing timing if you suspect a misfire).

1. Cylinder 1


2. Cylinder 6


3. Cylinder 5


4. Cylinder 4


5. Cylinder 3


6. Cylinder 2

Following this sequence ensures even ignition timing around the crankshaft. If your ignition system uses a distributorless setup, align the coil pack outputs to mirror this order on their respective cylinders.

Cylinder numbering and bank layout

On GM 4.3L V6 engines, the left (driver’s) bank typically carries cylinders 1, 3, 5 and the right (passenger) bank carries cylinders 2, 4, 6. The front-most cylinders are usually 1 on the left bank and 2 on the right bank. This arrangement supports the firing order 1-6-5-4-3-2. Always verify the exact layout with your vehicle’s service manual or a wiring diagram for your specific model year and configuration.

Practical wiring and verification tips

Before wiring or re-sequencing spark plug leads, make sure the engine is off and the key is removed. When checking timing with a timing light, ensure the belt/chain timing marks are correct and the distributor cap orientation matches the firing order. If you’re replacing a distributor or coils, reinstall components in the same relative orientation to preserve the firing order.

Notes and caveats

While 1-6-5-4-3-2 is the standard firing order for the 1988 4.3L V6, there were variations in some special models or aftermarket configurations. If you own a non-standard variant (for example, a non-typical market engine or a very late production change), consult the exact service manual or a trusted parts diagram for your VIN and body style to confirm.

Summary

For the 1988 Chevrolet 4.3L V6, the established firing order is 1-6-5-4-3-2, with cylinder numbering commonly organized as left bank cylinders 1-3-5 and right bank cylinders 2-4-6. Always verify with the vehicle’s official manual or a reliable diagram to ensure correct wiring for your specific model and configuration.

What is the firing order of a 3.8 L V6?

The 3.8L V6 firing order varies depending on the engine's manufacturer and model year, but the two most common sequences are 1-4-2-5-3-6 (common in many Ford models) and 1-6-5-4-3-2 (common in many GM and some Chrysler/Jeep models). You must verify the correct order for your specific vehicle to avoid misfires. 
You can watch this video to learn how to identify cylinder locations and the firing order for a GM 3.8L V6 engine: 56sBarbour's Auto HelpYouTube · Jul 22, 2017
Common 3.8L V6 firing orders 

• 1-4-2-5-3-6: Frequently used in Ford vehicles like the Mustang and Ranger. 
• 1-6-5-4-3-2: Found in many GM engines (such as the Series II) and some Chrysler/Jeep models like the 1999-2002 Camaro/Firebird and 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan. 
• 1-2-3-4-5-6: Used in some other V6 engines, such as the 2007 Jeep Wrangler and Mitsubishi 6G75 engine, but less common for 3.8L models. 

How to confirm the correct firing order

• Consult a service manual: The most reliable method is to check a vehicle-specific service manual for your year, make, and model. 
• Check the coil pack: Many ignition coil packs have the cylinder numbers printed on them, which can help you confirm the correct connections. 
• Inspect spark plug wires: Wires on a properly wired engine can be traced back to their corresponding cylinders. Some manufacturers use different wire lengths to help with correct placement. 

What's the firing order on a V6 Chevrolet?

And up in the front. It's going to be 2 4 6 bank one is going to be up against the firewall. And bank two is going to be up towards the front. And again the firing order is real simple 1 2 3 4 5 6.

What is the firing order of a V6 engine?

The firing order for a V6 engine varies by manufacturer and design, but common sequences are 1-6-5-4-3-2 (often for 90° V6s) or 1-2-3-4-5-6 (often for 60° V6s). Other common orders include 1-4-2-5-3-6 for specific applications like Ford engines or 1-4-3-6-2-5 for some designs. It is essential to consult your vehicle's service manual for the exact firing order, as it ensures proper engine balance and performance.
 
This video explains the cylinder identification and firing order of a GM 4.3L Vortec V6 engine: 56sBarbour's Auto HelpYouTube · Dec 1, 2024

• 1-6-5-4-3-2: Often used in 90° V6 engines, like older GM engines, to help smooth out vibrations. 
• 1-2-3-4-5-6: A common and smoother firing order found in many 60° V6 engines. 
• 1-4-2-5-3-6: A frequently used order that provides even firing intervals and is common in some Ford engines. 
• 1-4-3-6-2-5: Another common V6 firing order. 

Important note: The cylinder numbering starts at the front of one bank (e.g., driver's side) and continues sequentially along that bank. The other bank has its own numbering, and the firing order alternates between the banks to ensure smooth operation. 
You can watch this video to learn about the cylinder identification and firing order of a Chevy 3.1L V6 engine: 58sWirelesSHackYouTube · Sep 25, 2024

What is the order of spark plugs on a 4.3 Chevy?

4.3L Engines Firing order: 1-6-5-4-3-2 Distributor rotation: Clockwise.