Attention! The sequence of operations is presented on the assumption that the ignition distributor is installed correctly. If it is necessary to determine the top dead center for installing the distributor, then set the piston of the first cylinder to the top dead center in the compression stroke, then set the ignition marks.
The top dead center of a piston is the point through which each piston passes as the crankshaft rotates. Each piston reaches the TDC position at the end of the compression stroke and again at the end of the exhaust stroke. The top dead center of the piston of the first cylinder is used for the purpose of setting the engine timing mechanism.
The exact position of the piston at top dead center is extremely important when performing many jobs, such as removing the camshaft, timing belt and camshaft pulley and distributor.
Before starting work on setting the piston of the first cylinder to the top dead center, make sure that the gearshift lever is in the neutral position and the handbrake is applied. Disconnect the ignition system by removing the central wire from the distributor cap and grounding it to ground. Unscrew the spark plugs.
To set any of the pistons to top dead center, rotate the crankshaft using one of the methods described below. In doing so, rotate the engine crankshaft clockwise.
The most preferred method is to turn the engine crankshaft using the crankshaft pulley mounting bolt.
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To save time, you can use the starter to bring the piston to the top dead center. Precise installation of the piston at the top dead center is carried out by turning the crankshaft by the crankshaft pulley mounting bolt.
1. Mark the position of the terminal of the first cylinder on the distributor cap. If there is no mark, determine it by the high-voltage wire coming from the spark plug of the first cylinder.
2. Using chalk or a felt-tip pen, make a mark on the distributor housing located under the contact of the first cylinder.
3. Remove the distributor cap and move it to the side.
4. Turn the engine crankshaft until the mark on the crankshaft pulley aligns with the number 0 on the timing plate located on the front of the engine.
5. Check the position of the distributor rotor, which should be directed at the mark applied to the distributor housing. If the distributor rotor is directed in the opposite direction, then the piston of the first cylinder is at the top dead center in the exhaust stroke. To set the piston of the first cylinder to TDC in the compression stroke, turn the crankshaft 360° clockwise. In this case, the distributor rotor should align with the mark.