I have an 1984 Ford F150, I need to adjust the timing, but i have no idea where the timing marks are.. any help?

 

They are on the harmonic balancer behind the lower pulley if you have a v8. If you have a six, they may be in a different spot.

 

It's a V8 5.8L

Where is the Harmonic Balancer?

 

oh boy!!!

Dylan....welcome to the furum.

As Dave stated, it is right behind the lower (crank) pulley. It is actually what that pulley bolts to. The balancer fits right onto the crank shaft itself so is driven by the crank...which then drives the pulley.

The marks are right on the balancer, it's about 1.5" wide...just looks like a big disc.

Do a google on it and you'll see lots of pictures

 

Be careful while you're doing this....remember there is lots of moving parts up there when you're setting the timing...like the fan and all those belts

 

Okay, now that I found that, how do I adjust the timing to where it needs to be. (10 Degrees BTDC) How do i get it there?

 

I guess my first question would be, what makes you think you need to adjust the timing?

To answer your question, you have to loosen the hold down bolt on the distributor then move it left or right to align the timing marks where you want them. Make sure you remove the vacuum line and plug it before you adjust the timing.

 

I would also suggest doing a search at youtube and get a general idea on how to adjust timing on an engine.

Seriously, be careful of the fan when you this.

I would also suggest cleaning the harmonic balancer at the timing marks before you do this, and taking a very little paint brush and highlight 0°, 10°, 12°, and 14°

It'll make it easier to see the marks with the timing light, and it'll hold up for the next time you need to set the timing.

 

Dylan - These guys are right, on all counts. First, this is a dangerous job as the fan blades BITE. Second, if you didn't know where the timing marks are you can't know if you need to set the timing. So, get yourself a timing light, clean and mark the harmonic balancer as suggested, and check the timing - with the vacuum advance disconnected. And before you ask, the vacuum line is the hose to the distributor - and it is possible you have two of them so pull and plug both.

My bet is that you'll find the timing is where it should be. These ignitions are pretty stable.

 

Unless it is a 5.8 H.O., he has no vacuum advance, it's a computer controlled distributor.

 

There you go, spoiling everything with facts. Yes, you are right - as usual.

 

Does that mean it has a "Spout" connector that need disconnected like the 4.9?

 

I believe that is true. Not sure about the 460, but the 302 and 300/4.9 should have had then. The 351 HO didn't, but I was thinking that was 85 & 86, not 84.

 

Now you're really gonna confuse him....

Dylan, get a repair manual for your truck, year specific. Hang out here and ask questions. Post pictures, we'll do the same.

Enjoy the experience!