95 windstar tdc

[hfield]

Is there a easy way to get #1 cyl to tdc without a compression tester I see the timing numbers on the harmonic balancer, but don't know if I'm on the compression stroke or the exhaust stroke? I'm changing the timing cover gasket and I am worried about the camshaft position sensor going back in the same postion. thanks

[steve longo]

Originally Posted by hfield

Is there a easy way to get #1 cyl to tdc without a compression tester I see the timing numbers on the harmonic balancer, but don't know if I'm on the compression stroke or the exhaust stroke? I'm changing the timing cover gasket and I am worried about the camshaft position sensor going back in the same postion. thanks

Yes there is. Pull # 1 plug out , put a socket and ratchet on the damper bolt have someone turn the crankshaft clockwise while you hold your finger tightly over the spark plug hole . keep turning engine til you feel compressed air starting to push you finger away from the hole ,then look at the damper marks . Continue to turn crank till you see #1 cylinder timing mark lines up to TDC. Done!

[95'Spendstar]

hfield, how'd you come out with the timing issue? Any tips you'd care to share?
I'm putting mine back together now and I'm pretty sure this is going to be an issue.

[12Ounce]

Another way, while the cover is still removed, is to turn crankshaft to align the sprockets on the crankshaft and the camshaft (facing each other: crankshaft keyway up, camshaft keyway down) as shown in section 2A-11 of Haynes.
Then assemble everything without further rotation of crankshaft.