I have a 1988 4runner with the 3.0 and 5spd. I replaced the distributor today and am attempting to set the timing. when you shine the timing light at the balancer you can't even see the mark I put on it. Can someone explain this to me?

 

You haven't told us much, but applying my years of experience, I'd say:

You screwed up.

Did you follow the correct procedure to install it? http://personal.utulsa.edu/~nathan-b...13distribu.pdf Remember: the crank goes through TDC twice for each turn of the distributor; you could be firing the spark plug at the top of the exhaust stroke instead of the compression stroke. That isn't your problem; if you had done that you'd be able to see the mark, but the engine wouldn't run.

If you TRIED to follow the right procedure, you might be off one tooth on the helical gear. Then you'd be off by about 28°, which is right on the edge of whether you can see the mark.

 

even if the distributor was 180 off it would shine on the mark the same as if it was in time. put arrows allong the ballancer pointing tward the timing mark and use the light a while, you might not be seing the whole story. it is common for the rubber to let go and it can take a minute or 2 to see the mark appear and then quickly disappear. if you have the arrows you can see it better.