Need help with timing pointer on 350

[mojokim]

I'm doing some off season maintenance and ran into a snag. The timing pointer on my OMC 350 is so rusted that is unreadable. I tried steel wool, etc. but no luck. It looks to be part of the timing cover. Is there some way to repair it? SOme kind of tape overlay or something? I'd like to tune it up in spring but I don't know how I'll do it if the pointer is illegible. Thanks. John

 

[Buttanic]

Re: Need help with timing pointer on 350

The auto parts stores usually have chrome custom pointers that bolt on with a couple of the bolts that hold the timing chain cover on.<br /><br />Buttanic

 

[mojokim]

Re: Need help with timing pointer on 350

Good tip. I picked one up at a local store for $2.50 Now if I can get to the bolts.

 

[BRIAN03]

Re: Need help with timing pointer on 350

Find top dead center on the engine. Some of the after market pointers dont line right up. You have to index the engine to the pointer. Find TDC and install the pointer and make sure the 0 is at TDC or when you time the engine it won't be correct.

 

[mojokim]

Re: Need help with timing pointer on 350

That's a good point. I'll be sure and verify it.

 

[jw454]

Re: Need help with timing pointer on 350

Hello, If you look down at the pointer standing in front of the engine you will notice one tang of the pointer being deeper than the others. This is 0 Top Dead Center. Every notch and point to the left is in 2 degree incriments of advance. I believe your engine runs at 8 deg. BTDC. So if you count by 2s to the left from the deep groove being 0, you would be two grooves to the left of 0 Then you could always mark that groove . hope this helps you.

 

[mojokim]

Re: Need help with timing pointer on 350

Great info! Thanks. I figured there was some method to the notches. I will use the existing to align my new aftermarket pointer. Thanks.