54olds

I need to set the timing on a 324 engine. The book calls for 5 degree BTDC. There are two marks about a quarter-inch apart on the flywheel. Any idea how to determine which mark is 5 degree BTDC?

rocketraider

You should look at the crankshaft pulley instead of the flywheel to set timing. 54 shop book describes the timing marks thusly:

Leading edge of the notch on the crank pulley rim is 5 deg BTDC. Trailing edge of notch is TDC. Midpoint is 2-1/2 deg BTDC.

Set timing 5 deg BTDC @ 850 rpm. If engine detonates, set it at 2-1/2.

It also notes the point gap setting is .016 which should give dwell range of 26-33 degrees.

Good luck. Between window style distributors and electronic ignition, I don't know if I could set points with a feeler gauge now. I think the last ones I did were on an early 70s Ford, twenty years or more ago. At least Ford distributors are up front! Used to hate doing Chrysler products, with it in the back...

54olds

Oops - I meant crankshaft, not flywheel (kicking self.) Is the midpoint the space between the two notches? And am I right in assuming the leading edge would be the bottom notch as you are looking at it from the driver's side of the car?

rocketraider

Figure out which way the crank pulley rotates. Leading edge will be the first one that passes the timing pointer. And yes, midpoint would be halfway between the notches.