Timing

[Deftec]

I've already searched and haven't found what I'm wanting so I made a new thread. I bought a new motor but it doesn't come w/ a distributor. I've put my old one on but is there anything specific I need to line it up with? I know I'll have to use a timing light/etc but need some info on as what all I'll need to do to make sure it is in right.

This question is off topic...but is there an easier way to reach the top transmission bolt? I finally got it off with a breaker bar from the top(it was a PITA) and can reach it with an extension and swivel but I want to make sure I get it on there tight enough when I replace them.

Thanks

[InsanityInc]

Here's what you do: leave the dist out, and rotate your crank by hand until the pulley is lined up to where your engine should have it's timing set to (so, if your timing is 20BTDC, you should be at the 20BTDC mark), now install the distributor with the cap off, but take note of where the #1 electrode is, and basically when you put the dist in, you want the rotor to be exactly at that electrode point, because your crank position dictates that cyl #1 should be firing at that position. This will get your car running without messing anything up, but you'll want to set the timing with a light afterwards anyhow.

Oh, also, make sure your #1cyl is on the compression stroke, not the exhaust stroke. Easiest way to do this is just to have someone put their hand above the spark plug hold while you're turning the engine (with the plug out, anyway). If they feel air, you're on the compression stroke. Or if you want to be ghetto, you can just put it in and try it, and if your engine doesn't crank, just take out the dist and rotate it 180 degrees.