[Pupsvette76]

Hey guys I need some clarification on some theory... So I was verifying tdc with the heads on using the piston stop method spin engine both ways til I hit the stop and splitting the difference when I had finish I noticed that true tdc indicated on my degree marked balancer as 6 deg before the balancers tdc (0) which means my balancers Ero mark is 6 degrees retarded to I can't set my timing accurately ... Question is how do I adjust the pointer? Can't I set the pointer at 6 degrees after tdc to move it over so it points to zero when the timing light flashes? Hope that make sense to you guys thanks in advance

[vinniekq2]

take a file and make a new mark on the balancer

[Pupsvette76]

Should I be worried about the engine not being balanced proper now? So I should file the old markings off the balancer and how do you suggest putting the new mark on? Paint?

[vinniekq2]

leave the old mark alone. The new mark will look different.paint a coloured line if you want to make it easier to see.The mark is slightly mi=ore than a scratch on an 8 inch or less ring.The balance is ok.Dont make the new line huge,,,

[Pupsvette76]

Is it common that the balancer is off? I have never seen that before

[vinniekq2]

The rubber ring balancers are rarely correct

[Landshark928]

There are also two different pointers for SBCs. If it's an aftermarket chrome one, it may be the wrong one. Either way search "Timing Tape" here and follow the instructions to add one to your balance.

[gearheadslife]

I'd also mark the face of the balancer, the outer ring and the inner, and watch to see if it's moving around , give it a few weeks, if it's moving, replace it..
I have a nice adj. timing pointer on my sbc..
it's like this , mines for a 8" but this gives you an idea
Summit Racing® Adjustable Timing Pointers SUM-B64261 - SummitRacing.com


you could always install timing tape to the balancer to get better readings..

MSD Timing Tapes 8985 - SummitRacing.com

[F-BIRD'88]

MOve the location of the pointer and re verify its new location using the piston stop.

Be sure the rockers are completely backed off on that cylinder , while checking TDC so there is no chance the valves are hitting the piston stop.

[gearheadslife]

Originally Posted by F-BIRD'88

MOve the location of the pointer and re verify its new location using the piston stop.

Be sure the rockers are completely backed off on that cylinder , while checking TDC so there is no chance the valves are hitting the piston stop.

at tdc the valves are closed.. no need to back off the rockers..
it's easy to see if one rocker is opening a valve .. or id they are both closed.. why back off a rocker nut.. if your 180* off and on the exhause stroke you'll see it with one rocker not level with the other..

[F-BIRD'88]

If you have ever actualy done this you would see the wisdom of avoiding letting the moving valves strike the piston stop. Bent valves area *****.
Yes the valves will be moving, as you rotate the crank.

Do yourself a favor and loosen off both rockers on that cylinder.

[gearheadslife]

Originally Posted by F-BIRD'88

If you have ever actualy done this you would see the wisdom of avoiding letting the moving valves strike the piston stop. Bent valves area *****.
Yes the valves will be moving, as you rotate the crank.

Do yourself a favor and loosen off both rockers on that cylinder.

as seen as MOST that have done this, get real close to tdc before installing the stop .
it's not needed to back off the rockers at all.. unless you are running a silly 300+* duration cam.. (not likely)

[F-BIRD'88]

You will be rotating the crank back and forth 1 complete turn , each side of TDC when doing the check, The valves will be moving.
Think about it.

[gearheadslife]

Originally Posted by F-BIRD'88

You will be rotating the crank back and forth 1 complete turn , each side of TDC when doing the check, The valves will be moving.
Think about it.

yup...................

[F-BIRD'88]

You cannot find tdc doing it your way. You need to find the two opposing piston stop points on either side of TDC.
TDC is in the middle of these two opposite points.