I know these questions are asked way too often but I've spent hours reading and watching videos and I can't get it completely figured out. Yes, I've also searched ht.

First off its a b18c5 in an em1, the crank pulley, both timing belt covers, timing belt tensioner, timing belt and valve cover are removed. I need to put everything back on because timing was out of wack and the car wouldnt start. I have the cam gears set to tdc using the arrows and also the crank is set using the crank sprocket lining up to the arrow on the oil pump. My problem I have right now is setting the piston to tdc and is there anything else that needs to be aligned? Nothing else was touched. Any and all help is appreciated!

The only things that need to be aligned are the cam gears and the arrow on the oil pump for crank gear. Sounds like you already have everything taken care of

^ I agree. Sounds like you're ok.

awesome, thanks. Now is there any steps i should follow when replacing the timing belt? I think i start at the cam gears first? Im sure there is some kind of procedure to do this but since its my first time Im not too sure.

IIRC Helms says crank pulley then tensioner then water pump then intake cam and exhaust cam. Tighten tensioner and rotate 3 teeth. Always counter clockwise. Make sure belt doesn't jump a tooth. Loosen tensioner then tighten to spec. I'm sure others do it diff.

you missed a critical step

when you get the belt on rotate the engine counterclockwise at LEAST 3 full rotations to check everything is still aligned, then, bring it to tdc, loosen the tensioner pulley slightly so it can move, turn engine 3 teeth to pull the belt tight and tighten the tensioner to 35-40lb

^^ you are correct sir. Atleast 3 full rotations. Forgot about that step.

GL

worked good guys, she's runnin again. Thanks!!