58 engine TDC vs. timing mark

[Randy M.]

I got my 58 short block back from the builder and am putting on all external parts. I set #1 cylinder at TDC and installed heads, manifold, timing cover, vibration damper, etc. The damper/balancer is not the original but is from a 67 283. THe timing mark on the balancer does not match up with the timing tab on the cover. It's not even close. What did I do wrong? Can I just file a new mark in the balancer as it sits at TDC? Help!

[mike mccagh]

Re: 58 engine TDC vs. timing mark

are you sure ypou don't have cylinder # 6 on TDC of compression stroke? mike

[Joe L.]

Re: 58 engine TDC vs. timing mark

Randy-----

The 1958 and 1967 timing marks are the same. In fact, the SERVICE balancers for many 1958 applications are the same as the SERVICE balancers for many 1967 applications. So, using a 1967 balancer on a 1958 should cause no problems of functionality, at all.

So, I would say that there is either some problem with the balancer (like the outer ring has been displaced with respect to the inner hub; unlikely, but possible) or, more likely, you have an incorrect timing cover. If you have a 1969 or later timing cover (or, are using any timing cover with an externally mounted pointer (i.e. retained by 2 of the cover bolts), it will have the wrong position for the pointer for your engine.

[Joe L.]

Re: 58 engine TDC vs. timing mark

mike-----

The "phenomenon" that you are referring to causes all sorts of confusion and grief for folks building Chevrolet V-8 engines. However, in this case, it shouldn't. The timing mark on the balancer and pointer should align at either TDC of the compression stroke on #1 cylinder or TDC of the compression stroke on #6 cylinder.

[William V.]

Re: 58 engine TDC vs. timing mark

Randy

If you are absolutely sure that you are at TDC for #1 and #6, there is no problem remarking the timing mark on the balancer and using that mark for ignition timing. I suggest using a degree wheel and piston stop to find TDC.

Both #1 and #6 are at TDC at the same time. They are running mates. When one has just completed its compression stroke the other has just completed its exhaust stroke.

BV

[Robert Willis]

Re: 58 engine TDC vs. timing mark

I had that problem once and had to set the timing by ear. Later I changed the crank and my problem went away. I think the keyway in my crank was cut in the wrong posision.

[Randy M.]

Re: 58 engine TDC vs. timing mark

Joe - I have the timing cover from the 67 chevy also. It has a spot welded pointer. I think I'm just going to remark the balancer.

THanks,

Randy

[John H.]

Re: 58 engine TDC vs. timing mark

Randy -

If the timing index line on the outer ring is exactly in line with the key slot in the hub and a pulley bolt hole, the balancer is correct. If the index line is 10* counter-clockwise from that location, it's the wrong balancer ('69 or later passenger car).

[William V.]

Re: 58 engine TDC vs. timing mark

Robert

Its quite common for a balancer to be off a couple of degrees. That's why I like to check TDC with a degree wheel and compensate for any error.

BV

[Clem Z.]

buy or borrow a piston stop

install it in #1 clylinder,turn the engine CW till it hit the stop,mark the damper in line with the "0" mark on the timing tab,rotate the engine CCW till it hits the stop,mark the damper in line with the "0" mark on the timing tab. half way between these 2 marks is you true TDC. use a triangular file to make a new TDC mark

[Randy M.]

Re: buy or borrow a piston stop

Clem - thanks for the advice. I'm looking for one now.

Randy