Ok heres the problem. I want to make sure (before cranking the engine over) that the timing is correct on the engine. The engine is not mine by the way. I am a little stupid when it comes to timing I always had it done for me. So before starting the car is there any way to determine that the timing is correct.

Also how do I determine that the engine is at top dead center?

I am an engine noob so cut me a break

 

For the timing, just put the distributor in the middle, it will be 99% as close as you can get.

To check the cam timing, line up the white mark on the crank pulley with the little pointer on the timing belt cover. The cam gears have 3 marks on each. One on each should be pointing up, and 2 should be pointed right at each other in the middle.

 

ok thanks I am an engine noob.