I have the cam gears set to TDC. But when checking the TDC mark on the crank, it doesnt line up perfectly. Its off about 2-3 degrees (estimating). Ive set the tension on the belt, rotated the crank many times and when I bring the cams to TDC, the crank pulley mark is still off by a very small amount.

I remember this is how it was the last time I put the motor together, so I dont think its a problem. However Im just wondering what could cause this and if its something to be worried about. I think it might be because Im using a 2 layer gasket, and my head has been milled some in the past. The belt is fairly new so I dont think the belt has stretched any. But I dont know if there is something else I should be looking for in a potential problem.

Also, does this mean my timing is actually slightly advanced or retarded?

 

Don't use the mark on the crank pulley to find tdc. Use the mark on the crank sprocket and line it up with the arrow on the oil pump. Your marks will be off if you rely on the crank pulley to set the cam timing.

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by RTW &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">I have the cam gears set to TDC. But when checking the TDC mark on the crank, it doesnt line up perfectly. Its off about 2-3 degrees (estimating). Ive set the tension on the belt, rotated the crank many times and when I bring the cams to TDC, the crank pulley mark is still off by a very small amount.

I remember this is how it was the last time I put the motor together, so I dont think its a problem. However Im just wondering what could cause this and if its something to be worried about. I think it might be because Im using a 2 layer gasket, and my head has been milled some in the past. The belt is fairly new so I dont think the belt has stretched any. But I dont know if there is something else I should be looking for in a potential problem.

Also, does this mean my timing is actually slightly advanced or retarded?</TD></TR></TABLE>


I think your cam gears are off a little due to the thinner gasket and milled head. I'd estimate 2-3 deg retarded for both. You should just dyno and adjust them to where they need to be. Or use a degree wheel to find out where true zero is for your motor.

An easy way to check is take the hook tool and put it in the cyl #1 spark plug hole, then rotate the crank till the tdc mark gets close and watch as the tool peaks and then starts it's descent. (*I got this trick from Willard.)

 

dammit...forgot about the mark on the oil pump and I just put the crank pulley back on. fack.

ken yeah I use a "tool" (read: socket extention ) in the spark plug hole to "eye" TDC for cyl 1.

back to the garage lol