[johnman001]

For what its worth, (and you already got excellent advice), I prefer to time cams with the engine out. I like to get them set as close to the same as possible (which means multiple iterations). I have set them once in the car, but it isn't as easy as there isn't much room to install the dial gauge on a valve.

Why do you need to set cam timing? I only ask as I have only needed to set timing if I disturbed the chain housings or replaced chains/ramps or other parts that I would typically drop the engine for in the first place.

I once had to do this in the car immediately after installation due to a leaky chain housing gasket/o-ring. Instead of pulling the engine back out (draining oil/pulling CV's, unplugging electrical), I just removed the muffler, removed the offending chain housing, sealed it back up and checked timing. I cheated and used my notes to check what the other side had been set to and matched that.

I wish you the best of luck.

John