Finding TDC

[Jacsracing]

What are you trying to accomplish?

If you want to install the timing tape correctly, then as pointed out, it makes no difference whether you on the the #1's intake or exhaust cycle. Just find TDC of the #1 piston then install your tape. What you have to be careful of is insuring you have the true TDC. A dial indicator is a good way to determine this. Another method that works is using a stop on the #1 piston. Have the stop installed to stop the piston near the top. Take a reading on the balancer. Rotate the crank in the opposite direction until it stops again. Take another reading. Look at the two readings then find the middle spot between the two. That will be the true TDC.

If your trying to determine something else related to valve timing (e.g. installing a distributor), then while watching your balancer watch the #1 intake valve or lifter. When the intake opens, then closes up, then when TDC is reached on the balancer you have the "correct" TDC for timing.

John