Vehicle Info: 1988 Toyota Pickup Base 4WD 4 cyl. 22RE
Project: New clutch that turned into a wholesale replacement of parts up front (timing chain gear, oil pump, water pump). Because, why not?
Well, my son got a little overambitious on me the other day and removed both the distributor/spline/sprocket and timing cover without first setting engine to TDC. He also did not mark anything.
Is there a way I can establish TDC before we move ahead on our work to replace the timing chain/sprockets/tensioner, etc.?
Is there a way to find TDC without having to reinstall the oil pump/timing cover/crankshaft pulley?
And what do I do about the positioning of the distributor up top?
Thanks in advance!
Mortie (and son)

 

http://www.lcengineering.com/LCTechPages/ValveAdjustment.html

I always check this page when I'm doing anything timing or valve related.

Sounds like you just need to put the crankshaft bolt back on by itself, turn it, check the valves and #1 cylinder according to the link I just posted, and you should be there. Double check. Good luck.

oh! And use this.

http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTricks/EngineMods/TimingChain.shtml

 

You can get really close with the the keyway on the crank and check the valves.

 

Thank you both so much, bootscootboogie and thefishguy77, for the information. Son and I to move forward on this job today. Again, much appreciated. Mortie.