Dots on the camshaft and crankshaft sprockets must be at the
position in which they are closest to one another when the timing
chain is installed to ensure the proper timing and avoid internal
engine damage.Timing gear installation
With the engine on a stand, the powerplant could be completely
rotated to install the oil pump. For this project, a rebuilt oil pump was
purchased, but experienced restorers can rebuild their own pump with a
rebuild kit and access to machining equipment. The pump was primed at
this point to build oil pressure quicker at the initial start up. Also, the
distributor drive shaft was installed.
The engine was then turned upright. With the camshaft in place, the
crankshaft and camshaft sprockets were lined up so the timing chain
could be slid into position. As on the sprockets for most engines, these
sprockets have dots that were lined up to verify their correct position.
With both sprockets off, the timing chain was placed over them so the
entire assembly could be slid bolted on at once, thus keeping the
locating marks at their closest point to one another. Once attached,
Herman turned the engine twice to make sure the marks remained in