Finding TDC using a piston stop

[sleepertruck72]

I need to stab my distributor back in. Long story but I removed it and probably didn't have to. Do I set the depth of the threaded rod on the piston stop to the same depth as the spark plug ? I'm going to go off the balancer if possible, it is hard to see since I installed a serpentine belt and the brackets are in the way...Any input is appreciated. Thanks

[GRX]

I don't bother with a piston stop. Just a pencil in the spark plug hole while watching the rockers to be sure I'm on the base circle of the cam.

[Toxic Orange]

Check out this youtube video its the method I used. Can also help you confirm your timing line is still in the right spot and your balancer is not twisted.

Find TDC With Heads On - YouTube

[72 K20]

I use a TDC whistle that goes in the #1 spark plug hole. As you turn it over it will whistle on the compression stroke, then watch the balancer to get to TDC. This will get you close enough to drop in the distributor.

[MARKDTN]

I use a piece of paper towel in the plug hole. When you hit TDC on the compression stroke it will pop out.

[geezer#99]

Originally Posted by 72 K20

I use a TDC whistle that goes in the #1 spark plug hole. As you turn it over it will whistle on the compression stroke, then watch the balancer to get to TDC. This will get you close enough to drop in the distributor.

X2
I've used a whistle I made out of an old sparkplug. Broke off the porcelain and drilled an 1/8" hole in the centre.

[volksworld]

if you cant see the damper well enough to find tdc how are you gonna time it ?

[sleepertruck72]

I can see it, its just you have to look at the right angle... I'll have someone to help me turn the distributor while I aim the timing gun... my main concern is the length of the piston stop. I'll try it the length of the spark plug or a hair longer ?

[geezer#99]

Go longer on the piston stop. Turn it by hand of course. Do not use the starter to turn it over!
Going the length of the plug won't do it.
Bring it around till it touches, mark the balancer, turn it back around the other way, mark the balancer. Right exactly between those 2 marks is TDC. Mark it, pull out the stop, turn the crank to your mark and see where your mark shows on the timing tab.

[JointTech]

i got a thing with a spring on it and a rod that goes up and down. heres my build thread post about it.
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...8&postcount=47

[sleepertruck72]

Thanks for all the input...
I will get this done this week sometime. I appreciate ALL the input.