I had my head torn apart to replace some bad valve seals. I know that the right way to set your timing is with a timing light when you remove the distributor. My question is.. would it be ok if I just put the distributor back in the same exact place from where I took it off? My head was really dirty and I can see where the adjustment bolts for the distributor were before very clearly. Any input is appreciated.

 

If you had to replace valve seals, your cam caps, cams, timing belt etc... were all moved. Use a Timing Light and don't leave it to chance.

 

I've read you have to let the engine reach operating temp so the idle comes down before using the timing light. Is it ok for the engine to idle until warm with incorrect timing? I've just never had to set the timing before

 

If it'll idle you probably aren't hurting anything, esp. with the timing. To set the ignition timing warm up the car, unplug the service connector, and follow the instructions on your timing light. However make sure that the cam timing is correct first.