How to Install a Timing Mark

[trndkll67]

Any idea if its possible to mount an aftermarket timing mark on to an assembled enigne without removing any hardware. The previous owner didn't put one on(at least not that I can find) and I need to get my timing set up right. A few other questions: Where is the timing mark on a typical 302 located? When checking the timing, do you typically hold the light just behind the fan and shoot downward onto the flywheel or do you shoot upward from underneath the enigine? Are the tick marks always located on the flywheel?

Sorry for all the questions. Thanks everyody......

[Gearhead999]

You need to figure out which balancer you have so you know where the pointer should be. I've seen them on both sides of the timing cover.

Find TDC, use a piston stop so it's accurate. Then check you balancer and see where the marks are. Then install pointer. Could be on the left or right. Never saw a mustang with one underneath. Have seen several vans with the pointer under the truck though.

Good luck.

[red]

I set timing by a seat of pants method.
Advance it till it knocks when at wide open throttle.
Back the timing off a little so it dose not knock at WOT.
Timing is set, no light or marks needed.

[RacerX13]

What i do to set my timing without a pointer is to get Piston number one to top dead center, this can be done with a Commpression check gauge, Then find a common point on your timing chain cover such a a bolt, and use a white paint marker, and mark the balancer across from the common point, This is fairly accurate, and should get you close in time

[ralph s]

npd has a bolt on for 7 bucks. thats at least for the 82' cover i used. the boss is still cast in the cover and you tap it to except the pointer. the other end is secured with cover bolt. that mark was correct with 66 balancer. but you should still check it with piston stop.