The SPOUT is a dangling rectanguar shaped plug on the TFI connector wiring harness. It is removed to time the ignition with a timing light and replaced when timing is set. Removing it prevents the computer from advancing the spark while the timing is being set. Running without the SPOUT locks the ignition timing to the value set with the timing ligt - no spark advance and reduced performance.
ok im going to check again cause im trying to see why i have reduced power. when i put the pedal to the floor nothing happens. it doesnt jump or anything. i have an 87 mustang behind a c6 tranny. stock engine.