Working on a 1965 olds 400 (B code block). Had the wrong bank angle cam in it and a newer balancer with the timing marks in the wrong spot so predictably it ran terrible. Slowly correcting all this, installing the correct cam right now.

Just wondering before I take apart anything else, is the crank keyway also in a different spot in relation to TDC on the early cranks? Or in other words, can the marks on the timing set that’s in there currently be trusted? Or are there different sets for the early and late Olds engines?

I suppose as a reference they would be fine either way, just wondering if the mark here is actually TDC. I realize I can check, but I want to know if a different timing set would be needed for these to reflect TDC. If any of this makes sense. Thanks!

 

I cant tell for sure by your picture but you have to make sure you are using the correct "slot" and the correct "dot" on the bottom sprocket. Take your turning tool off the crank and shoot a good picture from the front showing all three keyways in the sprocket real good. What timing set are you using ??

 

Timing gear is on the 1 o’clock keyway with the dots lined up. Empty keyways on the bottom sprocket at approx 10 o’clock and roughly 5 o’clock. Unfortunately I don’t know the make or model of this set, it’s been on there since 2003 and I don’t have any records.

 

I would never install a camshaft without degreeing it. I learned my lesson when a cam I installed didn't perform was well as expected, then later I found it was 8º retarded with the dots lined up.

 

Looks like Pro Gear timing set , just ran into the same problem building my 455 , marks are machined in the wrong place on cam gear .... deep sixed that set and picked up a set from Bill at BTR ...

 

Thanks for the advice, I will just order the BTR set. Already have a two piece timing cover en-route since the balancer fought me the whole way, and I don’t wanna to remove it ever again. The BTR will be very easy to adjust with that.

 

It looks like they are using the "advanced" keyway and timing mark. To be 100 % certain I would put a degree wheel on it and check it. You really should do that anyway with any aftermarket camshaft or timing set. Way too many variables not to.

Personally I would not have an issue using the timing set that you have as long as you check it and put it on the "0" keyway and timing mark. It looks brand new, why waste money on another one.

 

X3, degreeing the cam makes sure everything is where it is supposed to be. It may take some trial and error to get it to get that set where it is supposed to be. Most of us use the Cloyes billet set with premium chain option and 9 way crank key FYI. Good luck.

 

To answer your question, Oldsmobile did not machine the keyway in a different position relative to TDC in the early 330, 400, 425 motors as compared to those 1968 and newer and thus there is not any difference in timing sets among those motors. I agree that your timing set appears to be in very good condition so why waste money on a new set; use it and degree that new cam when you install it.