I'm changing the timing belt on a 98 b18c1. Everything went fine, but now when I want to check if the timing is correct I rotate the crankshaft counterclockwise and the timing marks on the cam pulleys, oil pump, and crank sproket align perfectly. When I put the timing belt cover on and the crankshaft pulley, the timing marks on the cover and pulley are off by 1/4" to 3/8". Can I assume that the timing is correct since the marks on the oil pump and crank sproket align?

 

You'll be fine with that difference from the cover. That's why you adjust the differences from the distributor when you're done.

 

I got some shots of the cam pulleys, crank sproket and timing cover.

Cam pulleys align no problem.


So does the crank sproket with the mark on the oil pump.


But when I put the timing belt cover on and the crank pulley it looks like this.


EDIT: Thanks Lord Helmet, I guess the important part is that the sproket aligns with the oil pump... I suppose that mistakes could have been made when making the plastic. I'll be sure to set the timing the first time I start it.

 

Like I said earlier you will be fine. That's why you have to adjust the ignition timing to get the 16 degree TDC.