1. Locate the timing marks. The timing marks are located on the timing chain cover and the crankshaft pulley. The timing mark on the timing chain cover is a small notch, while the timing mark on the crankshaft pulley is a small raised bump.
2. Set the engine to TDC. To do this, turn the crankshaft until the timing mark on the timing chain cover aligns with the timing mark on the crankshaft pulley.
3. Loosen the distributor hold-down bolt. The distributor hold-down bolt is located at the base of the distributor.
4. Rotate the distributor. Rotate the distributor until the engine runs smoothly.
5. Tighten the distributor hold-down bolt. Tighten the distributor hold-down bolt until it is snug.
To put the engine in base timing, follow these steps:
1. Connect a timing light to the engine. Connect the timing light to the negative terminal of the battery and to the #1 spark plug wire.
2. Start the engine.
3. Aim the timing light at the timing marks. The timing light will flash a strobe light at the timing marks.
4. Adjust the distributor until the timing marks align. Rotate the distributor until the timing marks align.
5. Stop the engine.
6. Disconnect the timing light.
The engine is now set to base timing.
