I am having some problems setting the timing on a '85 F150 w/ 300 6 cyl. The distributor gear pin broke and I replaced the distributor. I think I am on the compression stroke of #1 cylinder but when I try to adjust the distributor (by turning it) to 10 degrees BTDC (as the shop manuals say) the engine starts running rough and dies. Does anybody know what might be happening here? What could I be missing. I have tried everything I know, but I have to be missing something. Any replys would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

You might be out 180 degrees. Here is what I did and it seemed to work. I am new at this so maybe someone can check my instructions here.

Remove the spark plug from cylinder #1. Have someone put their finger over the hole while you turn the engine with a wrench on the front pully. When your helper feels the compressed air comming from the cylinder, you are approaching TDC. Now look where the timing marks are. You should see the marks near the pointer.If you remove the cap from the distributor and check the rotor, it should be just before #1. If not,you're out 180 degrees and must pull the distributor out enough to re-align the rotor with the contact for cylinder #1.

85Vanman