302power

Hi, i just got done putting new heads, intake, and carb on my 85 hatchback and i havent been able to get it started. I did have the distributor out at one point to install something and i think that messed up the timing. Its getting fuel and spark but it just cranks and nothing else. Just wondering if anyone can help me get the timing down right so i can finally get it started. Thanks

rmodel65

put at top dead center maybe ur 180degs out!

Grimace5.0

Make sure #1 cyl is at TDC. Stab the dizzy so the rotor is pointing at the #1 terminal. It should start and run good enough to set it.

302power

ok thanks. whats the easiest way to get the motor to top dead center?

Grimace5.0

Well, you could look at the balancer and line it up with the pointer. Remove #1 spark plug and rotate the engine by hand until the air blows out of the hole, line the mark on the balancer up with the pointer.

If your balancer does not have marks on it or you are missing the pointer or if your not sure if the balancer is spun...

Pull #1 spark plug again, straighten a coat hanger and insert it down into the plug hole until it hits the piston. Slowly turn the engine over by hand, have someone hold onto the coat hanger and tell you when it stops coming up. That should be really close to TDC. Do the air blowing out or sucking in first to make sure your on the right stroke though. Don't forget to mark your balancer with paint or fingernail polish or something for reference next time.

302power

i got the car started yesterday. thanks for the help guys!!!

angcobra

I'm glad you got it going.