How to find TDC with heads off engine

kansas stocker · 05-07-2016, 05:48 PM

I have a 1/2" strap that bolts between 2 head bolts with a bolt that protrudes where it crosses the cylinder. I set the bolt down in the cylinder a quarter of an inch or so. With a degree wheel on I rotate the crank until it comes up against the bolt and take a reading. I then rotate the crank the other direction until the piston comes up against the bolt and take another reading. Split the difference and you should be at tdc. Repeat.
I've also used a dial indicator in a like manner at about 050.down. With the dial indicator you must push down on the piston to take up rod clearance.
Both have worked for me.

05-07-2016, 05:48 PM	#3
kansas stocker Member Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: kansas Posts: 235 Likes: 505 Liked 249 Times in 48 Posts	Re: How to find TDC with heads off engine I have a 1/2" strap that bolts between 2 head bolts with a bolt that protrudes where it crosses the cylinder. I set the bolt down in the cylinder a quarter of an inch or so. With a degree wheel on I rotate the crank until it comes up against the bolt and take a reading. I then rotate the crank the other direction until the piston comes up against the bolt and take another reading. Split the difference and you should be at tdc. Repeat. I've also used a dial indicator in a like manner at about 050.down. With the dial indicator you must push down on the piston to take up rod clearance. Both have worked for me.