colt_impala

iTrader: (3)

If the two dots on the timing gears are lined up, and the crank hub arrow is facing up, that means I'm TDC right? If not, is there another option besides tearing the front of the motor back apart?

colt_impala

iTrader: (3)

I actually just found my answer. but can I crank the car at 6? or do I have to remove the timing cover and put it at tdc?

SS RRR

iTrader: (2)

I am not quite sure what you're asking, but if you lined up the crank and cam gears at 12 and 6 your rotating assembly and cam/valvetrain should now be in sync. Why are you wanting to find TDC?

colt_impala

iTrader: (3)

http://shbox.com/1/cam_timing_ani.gif

mine is at position number 6

colt_impala

iTrader: (3)

And I just replaced the cam and heads, so I need to adjust the valves. but thats another story. I'm just worried that I out the chain on at the wrong position

colt_impala

iTrader: (3)

Wait wait wait, lets rewind; I feel pretty dumb at the moment. I dont even want to explain the realization I just had. I guess what I really should be asking is how to find TDC

SS RRR

iTrader: (2)

If you want to adjust the valves that way, you can position the cam/crank gear both at 6 o'clock like described earlier. If the timing cover is on now, the best way I've found, although crude, is to get a thick straw (McDonalds works well) and put it into the #1 plug hole as far as it will go. Rotate the crank while making sure the piston is on it's compression stroke. You will see the straw move as the piston comes into contact with it. Turn crank slowly while tugging on the straw until you get the most resistance. The straw will be sandwhiched between the piston and quench area. Seems comical, but it works. You can confirm you are at TDC if the tops of both lifters are pretty much flush with the tops of the lifter bores which is a sign both valves are closed.