To get you started on this endeavor, the timing should be set initially at tdc for no. 1. So one way to get this orchestrated is to first pull all the spark plugs. Then cover the no. 1 spark plug hole with your finger. Using a remote starter switch or have someone turn the motor over, just a quick click. When you feel the compression out of the number 1 plug hole, disconnect the battery, and carefully turn the motor clockwise using the fan belt (pulling the plugs makes this easier) or crawl under the car and remove the flywheel pan and use a flywheel turning tool. Move the motor clockwise until the bb that is embedded in the flywheel is right at the pointer in the bell housing window. The motor is now at tdc.
Now, install the plugs and plug wires. Trace the number one wire to the distributor and put a verticals chalk mark directly under the distributor cap tower for no. 1 cylinder. Next, wipe off the distributor pad on the block (firewall side of the distributor). Shine a light down and you should see a hash mark/groove on the pad. Loosen the bolt on the octane selector/hold down plate.
If you look at the photos, one of the plates is original equipment, had the A (advance) and the R (retard) 10 degrees at either end, and a 0 in the middle. The other is a delco Remy replacement and does not have the scale, just the 0 mark. Adjust your octane selector so the 0 mark on the plate lines up with the hash mark on the distributor pad. Tighten the bolt down.
Then remove the distributor cap and see where the rotor is pointing. It’s needs to be pointing to the chalk mark you made on the distributor body. If it’s not, loosen the screw on the clamp and rotate the distributor so the rotor is pointing at the chalk mark. Tighten the screw. You should be exactly on tdc. Now start the motor and double check with a timing light.
Most of these motors can take a few degrees of advance with today’s fuels. So if you want, and if you have a dial back timing light, you can add a little advance, 3-5 degrees. To advance, turn the distributor counter clock wise.
