thanks mike

[Donald B.]

I thought that was the way they went but i read a post from 2005 and it said if i put the two close together it would be on TDC #6 and not on #1. thanks again

[Joe L.]

Re: thanks mike

DJ-----

I don't know exactly what this is about. However, it sounds like you're talking about the alignment of the timing marks on Chevrolet V-8 timing sprockets. If so, I can assure you that when the marks are aligned with the cam sprocket mark at the bottom of the sprocket (6 o'clock) and the crank sprocket at the top of the sprocket (12 o'clock), the engine is at the top of the compression stroke (i.e. firing position) on the #6 cylinder, NOT the #1 as many folks believe. This is true for both small blocks and big blocks. I don't know if it's true for 348/409 and I don't know if it's true for LS-series small blocks. But, it's true for Gen I small blocks and all big blocks.

If you doubt this, simply assemble the engine with the timing cover and balancer off and with the marks aligned as described above (which is how the timing sprockets are always set at engine assembly). Turn the crank by hand, and watch the the valves for the closing of the #1 cylinder intake valve (approximately the firing position of the #1 cylinder). At this point, note the relationship of the timing marks on the sprockets. You will find that the mark on BOTH the cam sprocket and crank sprocket will be at the 12 o'clock position. Guaranteed.

Most folks never discover the above because they assemble the engine with the marks aligned and never again see the marks because the timing cover is on. Then, they use other methods to determine the firing position of the #1 cylinder in order to properly install the distributor. They ASSUME that the engine is at the firing position of the #1 cylinder when the marks on the sprockets are aligned. Many, many years ago I was one of those folks. I learned I was wrong about it, though.