Timing

[70spider]

Hello, I know there are a lot of posts on this subject but I couldn't find what I need. I am in the process of changing out the intake manifolds and in order to get the old one off I had to remove the block distributor (1438 motor) something I never like doing. I put marks on the clamp and the distributor, and noted the position of the rotor arm, but I still feel I may have lost the timing all together. I was wondering after I get everything back together (manifold, new carbureotor, radiator) how do I set the initial timing (I am putting a Petronix in place of the PO's 1980's breakerless ignition) I have a shop manual but unfortunately it is for a 1608 head mounted distributor. How do I go about setting the timing after the static timing is lost?
Or should I trust a mechanic on this one?
Thanks

[DanD]

We used to set the timing marks on the cam belt so they all lined up, and then point the distributor to the #4 cylinder on the cap. This is usually enough to get them going.

[70spider]

Thanks, I'll give it a try once I get back together.

[70spider]

Ok I am ready to put the distributor back in with the new petronix installed. I have set the motor to TDC (well as close as I can) and dropped the distributor in as close to how it was when I pulled it. This is what it looks like;

So the lobe of the dist. is near its closest point to the petronix and the rotor is pointing to the #4 terminal. Is this correct?
Thanks

[DanD]

Looks like you are in the ball park.

[70spider]

Thanks for the confirmation. After I get the tank painted and figure out how to hook up the electric choke I am going to try to fire him up, fingers crossed.

[WYSpider]

Thanks for the confirmation. After I get the tank painted and figure out how to hook up the electric choke I am going to try to fire him up, fingers crossed.

You can do this!