So i started doing a timing belt change on a b18b1 and i forgot to TDC everything before removing the belt. I got distracted because whoever had the car before me didnt have a spring on the tensioner and I was calling around trying to find one. The crank is currently at TDC but how to I get the cams(gears) at TDC? Do I simply put the belt back on and rotate the engine until it comes back around to TDC or did I screw up? My first time doing a timing job and I just want to make sure I can get it back in timing. TY

 

First, move the crank 90' from TDC... the direction doesn't matter, although moving it clockwise allows one to move it the "proper" direction of counter-clockwise when returning it to TDC after moving the cams to TDC. Now rotate the cam gears to TDC. Lastly, return the crank pulley to TDC. Put the belt on it. Loosen the tensioner bolt 1/2 turn, rotate the crank so that the cam gears move 3 teeth from TDC (exhaust gear moves the horizontal line at center three teeth up, intake gear moves the horizontal line at center three teeth down), and while holding the crank still, torque the bolt on the tensioner to 40 ft/lbs.

 

That worked great! Ty so much!

 

You are most welcome. Always happy to help.