SeTTiNG VaLVeS & Distributor

Ok I have the #1 Cylinder at TDC. I want to set the valves because I just put new heads on. In the Haynes Manual it says the torque spec for the rocker arm cover nuts are 100in-lbs. I have a torque wrench for in-lbs but ARE THE ROCKER ARM COVERS SUPPOSE TO BE BOLTED ALL THE WAY AT THE BOTTOM OF THE STEM??


My next step will be following the firing order and set each cylinder to TDC to set the valves.

Also, while i have the #1 cylinder at TDC, i want to reinstall my distribuor, however, my mark for the #1 spark plug wire is lost!!! When looking towards the front of the car I already know it is at the front left of the distributor cap. Will the gears at the bottom of the distributor still set right? ANY OTHER OPTIONS?


I am rebuilding most of the motor, so feel free to add comments of any other problems i might run into.

THANKS

NO the nuts should not bottom out !! Do not crank the engine with them bottomed out or you will bend the push-rods. The valve being adjusted must be closed and the pushrod should be able to be turned by for fingers , But with some resistance. You are looking at the wrong spec and procedure for adjusting valves. As far as the rest of the engine goes if you did anything with the rod or main s plastigauge everthing to make sure it is in specs and use lots of assembly lube. If you replace the cam there is a specific procedure to break it in and if it isn't followed will lead to premature wear and even failure. If you have never done this before I suggest you read up more or get someone who has to assist you. A small error can lead to major problems and can even cause total engine failure. Good luck.

you need to resolve the question of lost marks first.

first off, find the timing 'groove' in the balancer and paint it a bright color.

next locate the timing pointer mounted to the timing chain cover, the biggest 'v' is 0. if you dont have one of these - obtain one.

now set valve lash:

recall the firing order is 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2, therefore cylinder 'pairs' are as follows:

1&6, 8&5, 4&7, 3&2

put #1 at TDC. On a chevy v8, #1 is the frontmost cylinder on the right hand side as you face the motor from the hood. they are numbered front to back on the right 1-3-5-7 and on the left from front to back 2-4-6-8

With #1 at TDC, twirl the pushrod back and forth and tighten the nut until you feel resistance....then tighten 3/4 turn more. repeat for all pushrods for cylinders 1&6.

Now rotate the motor 90 degrees clockwise (as you face the motor) and move onto the next cylinder pair.

when you finish 3&2, rotate one last time to get back to TDC 1

now on chevy v8 dists, #1 plug wire is in appx the 5oclock position when installed. making sure all the wires are installed in order, you have to position the rotor about 30 degrees advanced because when you get the dist to fall in, the rotor will move due to the spiral cut gears.

you also have to get the oil pump drive to line up - you can turn it with a screw driver.

Once this is all done, disable any advance (be it electrical or vacuum) and time the motor - typically 4 to 6*BTDC, but your vehicle will vary (TBI motors with EST use 0)

Ok I plan on dropping the distributor tomorrow. When u say to position the rotor about 30degrees advanced do you mean turn it clockwise about 30degrees?

"you also have to get the oil pump drive to line up - you can turn it with a screw driver."
Where is that located?

"Once this is all done, disable any advance (be it electrical or vacuum) and time the motor - typically 4 to 6*BTDC, but your vehicle will vary (TBI motors with EST use 0)"

I'm have a TBI, I dont know what kind of advance i have or how to disable it. What does BTDC mean???

not to be a smart ass but ur asking some questions that indicate to me you need someone there helping you. look at the bottom of the dist gear. note the 'rod', look in the hole in the motor and note the shaft with the 'slot' - they must line up as the dist drives the oil pump.

practice setting the dist in the hole a few times and from the way the rotor magically turns, you will see which way to go.

BTDC means before top dead center. the TBI motor times at 0*, so use the notch I described before.

at the very least goto walden books and pick up a book on the small block chevy V8....everything I have outlined is in there.