no timing marks, what do i do?
Junior User
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 97
Likes: 0
From: Rocksprings
i have a possible solution
if you have a piston stop, take the #1 plug out, and turn the engine over by hand until you come to TDC. then, using a bolt or some other OBVIOUS part on the engine, make a mark on the harmonic balancer that lines up with it. if you have a dial back timing light set it to what you want timing to, and time the engine. if not, using your new mark as 0*, place a piece of timing tape on your balancer and use that same reference point.
if you don't have a piston stop, i have used a long, thin screwdriver to find TDC while a buddy turns the engine over by hand. but you need to take care using this method to: 1)be sure you are at TDC 2) not gouge piston crowns or cylinder walls.
i am curious though, about why you have no markings on your balancer. is it spun? or aftermarket? or is the timing tab on the timing cover just busted off?
good luck.
sean
if you don't have a piston stop, i have used a long, thin screwdriver to find TDC while a buddy turns the engine over by hand. but you need to take care using this method to: 1)be sure you are at TDC 2) not gouge piston crowns or cylinder walls.
i am curious though, about why you have no markings on your balancer. is it spun? or aftermarket? or is the timing tab on the timing cover just busted off?
good luck.
sean
Elder User
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 627
Likes: 1
forget the timing marks and set your timing with a vacuum gauge. Procedure is to use manifold vacuum and turn your dist clockwise until max vacuum is reached then back off 1in.of vacuum on gauge and your timing will be optimum.
