Finding tdc

[Jon1229]

I have a 2001 mercruiser 3.0 and it’s timing tab is broken off, I just finished the head gasket so I need to adjust the valves... how do i find tdc without that tab???

 

[Bt Doctur]

Without knowing your correct timing you`ll be replacing the head gasket . Go to a speed shop and get a generic chrome one.
For the valves turn the motor over until a intake valve opens and closes, this is compression stroke for that cylinder, both valves are closed, adjust both valves and move to the next cylinder

 

[Jon1229]

Without knowing your correct timing you`ll be replacing the head gasket . Go to a speed shop and get a generic chrome one.
For the valves turn the motor over until a intake valve opens and closes, this is compression stroke for that cylinder, both valves are closed, adjust both valves and move to the next cylinder

Okay thanks so I can adjust the valves without the tab but afterwards to set the timing I need to go get it?

 

[Bt Doctur]

Yes, unless you want more practice replacing head gaskets

 

[Scott Danforth]

Get a piston stop and degree wheel to find TDC. Then align the aftermarket timing tab

Or get a new front cover and oil pan gasket. Pull drive, pull motor, remove pan, pull damper, remove old front cover, rotate motor to timing marks , install new cover, verify TDC, paint new cover, install pan, install damper, install motor, align motor, install drive....go boating

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,...... Don't think I've ever seen any motor,........
From a weed wacker to a 1000 hp diesel, you can put together without timin' marks,......