need help with timing.

[SR20det S12]

Ok here is my problem. I just did a sr20det swap ( Red Top) into my 84 s12 and i can't get it to run any where close to how it should.
The car runs horrible if i have it any where close to the timing marks.( i have reset the cas to factrory position and used both timing light methods) The only time i can get it to run correctly is with the all the pulley marks about 2inches to the left of the pin. but it still runs like garbage. And that is as far as the cas will adjust. And if i try to move the cas 1 tooth over the car won't run at all.

Things i have checked.
1. There are no ecu codes
2. there are no boost/vac leaks
3. all plugs are new
4. fuel pressure is good

onyly thing not factory is the boost level. it is set at 12psi. that is how i got it

Thanks for any idea's

[scaramoche]

im having timing issues myself, and have learned a great deal about it(still learning) so will give you what i have learned, and hope it helps.

First, make sure the timing belt is installed correctly(infact this may be a good time to replace if not new).
basically get the engine to TDC(top dead center, ie number 1 cylinder is at the top of it's stroke), then line up the cams and install belt(I would get a haynes or chiltons manual, to find out exactly how to do it, plus ask alot of questions.

Once you are SURE, timing belt is installed correctly, verify that the dampner is installed correctly(I have a vg30 engine i rebuild, and just found out that the dampner;which has the timing marks, is not keyed to be lined up with cycinder number 1 :P.

After these 2 steps are done, ie timing belt installed correctly, and dampner is lined up, then verify your distributor is set to fire on cylinder 1(remember YOU STILL NEED TO BE AT TDC).


in a nut shell something is not lined up correctly, either your timing belt, dampner(this is my problem), or distributor.