The distributor mounted icm shorted out. So I got a new one, but I forgot to mark the rotor alignment on the distributor housing. I did mark the distributor position in reference to the engine. So what should I do now to get it running? It almost starting when I put it back together but I'm assuming the timing is off now. Thanks for any help.

 

need to pull out the #1 plug in the firing order, then put the motor to TDC on #1 then re-position rotor to that plug wire location on your cap. Do you have a chiltons or haynes manual..they are worth every penny when doing stuff like this. Good luck

 

thanks. yes I do have a haynes. I'm just not much of a mechanic and everything is new to me. what's the best way to turn the crankshaft manually. do i have to use a breaker bar on the pulley bolt as mentioned in the repair manual?

 

All you have to do is bump the key...you need another person doing the TDC for you. He will tell you when the piston is at the top...it may take a couple rounds.

 

Just to clarify a couple of things. Your distributor has a TFI module, that attaches to the outside of it (unless remotely mounted). Neither type, require Dist. removal for replacement. Your Dist. also has a PIP sensor (AKA: Stator, hall effect) which does require Dist. removal to replace. It's normal practice to replace both (TFI & PIP) at the same time because of their close interaction & similar life expectancies. So, as for determining TDC/#1cyl., 1 complete cycle is 720 degrees. TDC/#1 occurs twice. Once on the compression stroke & once on the exhaust stroke. You want to work off the Compression stroke! Exhaust stroke TDC/#1 puts your timing 180 degrees out. Piston throw is slightly higher/farther on the compression stroke. Haven't had to do this for a long time, but I believe that's the drill! If you want to see some really crazy stuff, 180 degrees out will provide it! http://fordfuelinjection.com/?p=71