timing

[dcata]

Does anyone know what the proper setup for timing is on a 1985 Pontiac Sundbird 1.8 liter engine. We have used what the Haynes manual says and it is jumping the timing after we turn it through. Also any suggestions on what might be causing it to jump time. Thanks

[bucsfan]

also dcata note that the head came off of an 86 oldsmobile forenza. We were told that the head was interchangable. I am beginning to wonder. dcata and
I have tried several times to get the timing set per haynes manual but to no avail. We have got to be overlooking something if anyone can help it would be greatly appreciated. ps we already put a new timing belt on.

just went onto autozone.com looked up cylinder heads for forenza and the sunbird both have same part # so it has got to be something else.

[richtazz]

Did you properly adjust the timing belt tension? Also, I seem to remember back then, GM used two different styles of timing belts. One had squared cogs, and one had rounded ones. Did you check to be sure the 86 had the same style cam sprocket as the 85?, as it could be a difference in the style or the number of teeth.

[89Sunbird]

The Olds Firenza, Buick Skyhawk and Sunbird are all almost interchangable. You have a 1.8, which was also on the Firenza. You are fine with it.

As for timing, align the upper pulley with the markings, then attach the timing cover and line up the lower pulley with 10 degrees BTDC

Also, have the belt off while doing this. Attach the belt, then start the car and adjust the timing using the adjusting bolts on the distritbutor until the car is running as smoothly as possible...

[richtazz]

89sunbird is correct in that you align the cam gear mark with the notch in the cover, and the crank at 10 degrees BTDC. The repair manual says not to drive the car extensively without using the proper factory type special tool to adjust the timing belt tension. After hooking everything back up, you should slowly rotate the engine clockwise 720 degrees (2 full turns) and re-check alignment as well as feel for any valve contact in the engine. They suggest to re-check alignment again in a few days in case the new belt stretches.