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November 12th, 2009, 9:15 PM

#11

jeffs_62

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Quote:

Originally Posted by Deteoni

Or you can put a long screwdriver in the #1 cylinder and watch it for the piston to top out.

I tried this once. Screwdriver tip broke off in the cylinder, lead to a head gasket change. Just something to think about.

Quote:

Originally Posted by mudmaniac

Lots of great shortcuts listed here guys, yes these methods will find TDC for you and get you close to the correct timing, but do we really want to argue that a timing light is not the best method for accurately setting the timing?

I won't argue that. I haven't used one in years, but that's just me.

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November 13th, 2009, 2:18 AM

#12

Deteoni

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Quote:

Originally Posted by jeffs_62

I tried this once. Screwdriver tip broke off in the cylinder, lead to a head gasket change. Just something to think about.

Ouch! Never had that happen but that's not to say it can't.

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November 13th, 2009, 9:59 AM

#13

therewolf

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In most cases a timing light is great, and not only for setting the timing.

But in some instances the engine is just too old for a timing light to be effective. If the harmonic balancer has slipped, or the timing mark isn't visible, for instance.

I have to admit you should generally use a light, but you get in the habit of setting it by ear.