Timing marks rusted away - 1986 OMC 5.7

[WJL24]

Just finished tune up and carb rebuild. Engine cranks slow at start up. Went to set timing and the timing marks are rusted away. Any suggestions??

 

[Scott Danforth]

Is your timing tab rusted off? Or you cant just read the numbers?

 

[Fall Guy]

Well, this one way you can do it first find TDC #1 cylinder. Remove #1 cylinder spark plug and Stick a long thin screw driver in to the hole. Turn motor by hand till cylinder pushes the screw drive out and stop when it hits TDC. You will have to go back and froward when piston reaches the top to feel if piston is on top dead center. Then make your mark with a marker or maybe if you use sand paper to remove rust you will find the mark. Hope this help you.

 

[WJL24]

The tab is still there but it is rusted and not complete.

 

[Scott Danforth]

then get a replacment tab. they make bolt on ones. however all you need to know is where the big V is on the tab and use timing tape for the correct damper size.

correct way to find TDC is to use a piston stop and degree wheel, however on a stock SBC, I would probably pull the motor and replace the timing cover. your looking at about 4-6 hours worth of work to drop the drive, pull the motor, swap out the front cover, clean up the rust, repaint, re-install the motor and align the drive.