[LivinProof]

I`m putting a new distributar, wires etc. in a 350. Which plug connection on the cap is for the #1 cylinder? Thanks

[SJFast]

The one that the rotor is pointing to when cylinder number 1 is at TDC on the compression stroke.

[ September 04, 2002: Message edited by: SJFast ]</p>

[LivinProof]

Thats what I thought , But, the top of the distributer turns, what position should it be in? Is there a mark on the inside of the cap?

[engineguy]

With the distributor cap removed, turn the engine over by hand until to it at TDC on the compression stroke. Then make a mark on the base of the distributor, where the rotor is pointing. Put the cap back on and place #1 wire into the cap at the tower closest to your mark on the distributor. Now, turn the distributor back very slightly in the direction opposite of normal rotor rotation. (This will advance timing slightly and should be close enough to get it started) Be sure that you have the distributor hold down bolt tightened enough that you can just turn the distributor and don't forget to tighten it completely after timing the engine.

[Mertz]

You can statically set the timing by finding TDC as described above. Make sure you are in the compression stroke. Put your finger over the hole of #1 to feel if it pushes air. That is #1 compression. Install the distributor with the rotor pointing at #1 on the cap. Now rotate the engine putting your timing mark a 10 BTDC. Pull the plug wire from #1 plug and set it near a ground about 1/8" in a place where you can watch it jump the gap. Turn the distrubutor clockwise (assuming your rotor turns clockwise). Turn on the ignition key but not so that it turns the engine over. If you do you have to start over with the setup. The key should be on. Now rotate the distrib. counterclockwise until you see a spark. Do it a couple of times to make sure you have it right. Tighten down the dist. and you are timed at 10 BTDC. It should run fine. If you are not in the compression stroke you will be 180 out. If your rotor turn counterclockwise when the engine is running you need to initially turn the dist. counterclockwise then clockwise or you will be on the wrong side of the cap terminal and be way out of time.

Hope this helps.

[LivinProof]

thanks for the info will give that a shot

[4 Jaw Chuck]

#1 post on the cap is located by looking at the screw or clip position (on Fords) nearest to the vacuum advance mechanism, #1 is the post just left of the screw or clip (usually the clip is between two posts). Some caps have a #1 cast right on the cap.