16v engine timing

[Pistolero44]

I recently removed a running 16v engine, with compression in the 200's, from an 87 S. I put it up on an engine stand and tried to get the timing marks lined up. The flywheel is lined up to the line on the rear of the crankcase around 11 of clock, but the camshaft indent is past the housing indent 3 teeth. Could you guys tell me what I can do to double check the timing is hopefully not out of sync

[speedysprocket]

Use something like a screw driver down the spark plug hole of cylinder one to verify it is at TDC when you think the flywheel mark is telling you it's at TDC. If those match up and your cam is still off three teeth, then your cam is off and needs to be re-timed..

[Pistolero44]

I have done that already and the timing is still off. I am surprised the engine ran fine with the timing being off.

[mhariush]

did you loosen the rotor and bolts? Those hold the camshaft gear in place, it has some play to adjust and advance timing, maybe as much as 3 teeth, I can't remember exactly.

Also, you're sure you're on the upstroke TDC? Do BOTH marks line up at TDC, the lower one on the flywheel by the starter and the top one?

[Rasta Monsta]

Originally Posted by mhariush

Do BOTH marks line up at TDC, the lower one on the flywheel by the starter and the top one?

I lol'd.

[speedysprocket]

Well if your cam gear isn't lined up with the mark when you are sure the engine is at TDC, the cam timing is off. Sounds like you're changing the belts anyways, so no big deal.
And the cams should be adjusted using dial gages for proper lift. You don't just adjust it to make up for cam gear being off a tooth...