according to helms, rotate crankshaft until no. 1 cylinder is at top dead center before removing the distributor. it also states that the notches on the distributor and camshaft are offset to prevent installing the distributor 180 degrees out of timing.

what would happen if the distributor is installed 180 degrees out of timing, will the engine still start up and run as normal or not start at all? what are the symptoms if its 180 degrees out of timing?

thanks.

 

it would run pretty bad if at all but all you have to do if your not sure if its right or not is. Put your carnk pulley tdc and ensure the up arrows on your cam gears are pointing up. then pull your dizzy cap and see if the rotor button is pointing to the no.1 plug

 

Like you said yourself, the notches are offset. It makes it impossible to install the distrubutor 180 degrees backward. If your just curious as to what would theoretically happen the answer is nothing. The engine wouldn't start, you'd just flood it.

 

i just got worried coz i only get to read the helms manual regarding the offset after i finished putting back the dizzy and sealing the valve cover. i was not sure if it's impossible to install it the wrong way coz of the offset.

i guess i didn't screw up coz the engine started right away and doesn't run rough. i also rotated the crank to TDC but the distributor was pointing to cylinder no. 4, i rotated it another 360 degrees to TDC and it points to no. 1

thanks guys.