Classic Mustangs List Archive

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Mail From: (email redacted) (email redacted)

Hi,
I am installing a ditributor in a 289 GT. I am wondering what is the simplest
way to determine TDC (top dead center). The car has not been run and is
lacking ignition, so I will be turning it by hand. I want to position the
distributor correctly.

Thanks,
Rolland Fellows
Austin, Tx.

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This read-only message was archived from a public mail list.
Mail From: Rick Larson (email redacted)

Rolland writes:
>
> Hi,
> I am installing a ditributor in a 289 GT. I am wondering what is the simplest
> way to determine TDC (top dead center). The car has not been run and is
> lacking ignition, so I will be turning it by hand. I want to position the
> distributor correctly.

When I pull a distributor I get it cylinder 1 at TDC and using a long
poll, make a straight line through the distributor rotor. I put tape
marks on the radiator and shock tower brace.

If you think the crank has been moved or don't know, try this:

Rotate the crank until the #1 cylinder is TDC (put your finger in the
spark plug hole and feel the pressure) and the timing marks on the
balancer at TDC.

Put the distributor rotor on and lower the distributor down so the
rotor is pointing to #1 on the distributor cap (I think it is pointing
between the brake master cylinder and drivers side shock tower).

Rotate the crank two full rotations and verify the rotor is still pointing
at #1 on the distributor. This should get you close enough.

rick
--
Rick Larson (email redacted)

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All the list info you'll ever want: antler.moose.to/~server/cm