In a distribution type fuel injection system, the fuel injection advance angle, or the relative angular position at which fuel injection begins, is controlled by a first spring loaded piston (44). The spring force is opposed by pressurized fuel from a pump (14), the pressure increasing with engine speed. A second spring loaded piston (49) moves the first piston (44) to an advanced position for starting the engine and is retracted when the fuel pressure reaches a certain value to subsequently retard the advance angle in an idling speed range. The fuel pressure moves the first piston (44) to progressively advance the angle in a higher speed range. An electromagnetic valve (62) is controlled to trap fuel and apply a hydraulic lock to the second piston (49) during starting of the engine to prevent retarding of the advance angle until the engine speed or coolant temperature reaches a predetermined value.