timing problems with my 4ac in my 84 SR5

[Jeenyus-00]

I set the engine to top dead center using the thumb over the number one spark plug hole method, and the timing mark on the crankshaft pully is nowhere near the 0 on the scale.

Here's a pic:
http://i292.photobucket.com/albums/m...Picture178.jpg

Whats the most likely cause and how can I fix this.

Ps. my car runs like sh#t and lately I can't even get it started.

Thanks,
Jason

[2002corolla]

did you do any major work on the motor? because that is off by alot (that would account for the car running like turd or no running. I think that the crank shaft is keyed so that may not be the issue, double check that tho. is the timing belt/chain put on properly. remember that the strokes are : intake, compreeion, power and exhaust. you may be off on that if you have messed with the timing belt/chain. You may be off by 180 degrees. that is the only thing that I can think of off hand.