Is the timing in a diesel injection pump important?

Diesel injection pump timing is important because fuel must inject at the proper time for the diesel engine to run properly and efficiently. Without proper injection pump timing, an engine is more difficult to start, runs at a higher temperature and releases heavier emissions.

When troubleshooting poor diesel engine performance, injection pump timing is an important first step that may prevent eventual engine failure. Some diesel engines still operate without proper injection pump timing, but this causes the engine to operate at higher temperatures that damage the internal parts of the engine. Injection timing is also responsible for fuel atomization, air utilization and bulk mixing.