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How do you set the timing on a 1995 3.8 Ford Thunderbird?

1. Locate the timing marks. The timing marks on the 3.8L Ford Thunderbird are located on the front cover of the engine. There is a notch in the front cover that aligns with a mark on the crankshaft pulley. There are also two marks on the camshaft sprocket.

2. Remove the distributor cap. The distributor cap is located on the front of the engine, just above the water pump. Remove the distributor cap by prying it off with a flat-blade screwdriver.

3. Rotate the crankshaft to TDC. Slowly rotate the crankshaft until the notch in the front cover aligns with the mark on the crankshaft pulley. This will ensure that the engine is at top dead center (TDC).

4. Locate the timing pin. The timing pin is located on the distributor housing. It is a small, metal rod that extends through the distributor housing.

5. Drop in the timing pin Align the timing pin with one of the two marks on the camshaft sprocket. This mark corresponds the #1 cylinder.

6. Install the distributor. Place the distributor into the engine, aligning the timing pin with the mark on the camshaft sprocket. Press down on the distributor until it is fully seated.

7. Replace the distributor cap. Replace the distributor cap and secure it with the screws that you removed in step 2.

8. Start the engine and check the timing. Start the engine and let it idle. Use a timing light to check the timing. The timing should be set to 10 degrees before top dead center (BTDC). If the timing is not correct, adjust it by rotating the distributor.

Note:

- If the timing is more than 2 degrees off, you may need to loosen the distributor hold-down bolt and rotate the distributor until the timing is correct. Then, retighten the distributor hold-down bolt.

- Be sure to use a good quality timing light, as this can make a big difference in the accuracy of your timing setting.