Valve Timing Verification
CAUTION:
Painted or colored chain links are used during initial engine assembly and can not be relied upon for valve timing verification. Only use top-dead-center marks, cylinder head cover mounting surface and camshaft sprocket marks to verify valve timing or engine damage may result.
Correct timing is critical for the NON free-wheeling designed engine. Engine timing can be verified by using the following procedures:
- Remove the cylinder head cover. Refer to CYLINDER HEAD, REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION .
- Remove the spark plugs. Refer to SPARK PLUG, REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
.CAUTION:
When aligning timing marks, always rotate engine by turning the crankshaft. Failure to do so will result in valve or piston damage.
- Rotate the crankshaft clockwise (as viewed from the front) to align the timing cover mark (1) with the damper notch (2) to place the number one cylinder piston at top-dead-center on the compression stroke.
- While maintaining this alignment, verify that the dowel window (2) on the camshaft sprocket point toward 12 o'clock.
- Using a straightedge tool (1), place the tool vertically at the center of the cam gear. Using the top edge of the cylinder head (3) as a reference point, the angle between the straightedge and the cylinder head needs to be 90°.
- If the engine timing is not correct, proceed to Timing Chain and Sprockets for service procedures. Refer to CHAIN AND SPROCKETS, TIMING, REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION .