On my new engine that I'll be installing next month, if the distributor is out of the engine, how do you set up the engine initially to make sure the cylinder position and distributor are correct?

I know that you must set #1 cylinder to TDC and the rotor to position #1, but doesn't the cylinder reach TDC twice? Do I have to take the valve cover off and observe if the intake valves are open/closed?

Steve

If the cams were never taken out, then you don't have anything to worry about. The distributor will only fit one way.

Oh yeah?

So if I was to walk out side right now, I could remove my distributer from my engine... polish it on my bench wheel, then put it back on, and not worry about positioning at all? (if I'm careful getting it on and off?

or??

Thank you,

James

Originally posted by eric96ser
If the cams were never taken out, then you don't have anything to worry about. The distributor will only fit one way.

Sorry should have clarified. This is my brand new, custom-built DPR engine w/ JWT C2 cams. So yes, the cams were taken out and the new ones were installed. I received the engine complete but the distributor was packaged separately.

Steve

Originally posted by PULSSSAR
Oh yeah?

So if I was to walk out side right now, I could remove my distributer from my engine... polish it on my bench wheel, then put it back on, and not worry about positioning at all? (if I'm careful getting it on and off?

or??

Thank you,

James

Yes, that I know is true.

Steve

If the cams were installed, and they are lined up, then you are still good to go. As far as getting the distributor 180deg off, you can't do it. You will still need to set ignition timing though.

Originally posted by eric96ser
If the cams were installed, and they are lined up, then you are still good to go. As far as getting the distributor 180deg off, you can't do it. You will still need to set ignition timing though.
My friend just got back his race motor build by DPR. He shipped him the motor and 3 months later its back. The problem was that the cam timing was off. The intake cam was 1 tooth off. HE was lucky and nothing happened, but you wouldve thought for the price you pay; it wouldve been perfect.