Finding TDC for compression cycle on 944

[Santos]

I have a 1983 944 and have a question on timing.

For my 5.0 mustang I find TDC at the compression cycle by checking for air pressure coming out of cylinder #1. Do I have to do the same for my 944?

The piston has two TDC. One for exhaust cycle and one for compression cycle.

Based on Clark's Garage tech notes, I believe that all I have to do is align the timing marks on the camshaft sprocket and set my #1 piston to TDC. And, that should setup the distributor to fire correctly for each piston. Is this correct?

Thanks,
S

[944 Ecology]

The position of the camshaft determines whether the TDC is on the compression stroke or the exhaust stroke. If you set the timing mark on the camshaft to TDC and the timing mark on the crankshaft to TDC, you will have set it correctly.

[rick13]

yup

[Rasta Monsta]

You are correct, but you have to be cautious about spinning the crank with the timing belt off, as this is an interference motor.

[AKCJ]

It sounds like you're on the right track. If the timing belt is on correctly, the easy way is to look at the timing mark on the cam gear.

Yes, you can also check for "air pressure" at number 1 to make sure you're on the compression stroke. I prefer to look at the mark on the flywheel through the window on top - I would think that's the way to get the best reading. I understand there's also a mark on the bottom of the flywheel but you have to pull the starter out to see it.

Good luck.