I have an 88 2.0 Si. When I try to set the cams at No. 1 TDC as indicated by the scribed marks on the cam gears, the valve train on both cams starts to load making it necessary to wedge the cam to keep it at TDC. Is this normal? TDC should have no load on it correct? I mean how else would you adjust the valves? What is the problem if the cam gears do not line up? Have they spun? HELP!

 

Anybody? Come on motorheads, help a fella out!!

 

That is normal. You have the B20A or B21A motor correct? These motors have cyl. heads with high rocker arm ratios and this tends to push the cams away from TDC.