i am wondering how you would set the timing on a 95 f150 with the 4.9L and 5 speed standard transmission. my dad and i ended up having to pull the distributor out to change the distributor cap after the bolts broke off. we ended up having some issues getting the distributor to go back in and my dad did a bit of persuading to get it back in but in doing so he removed the marks that i was going to use to put the distributor back exactly where it was. so now i am wondering how you would set the timing on it. currently is seems to run ok but i know sometime you are better safe than sorry when dealing with stuff you don't know.

 

You need to use a timing light to set the timing properly.
I have one I no longer need. Stop by and get it.

 

so there is no special tool require other than a timing light? so where should i be looking for timing marks on the engine block?

 

down by the crankshaft harmonic balancer

 

you need to dis-connect the SPOUT connector that is on the drivers side inner fender by the ignition module once the engine is normal operating temp.

hook the timing light to the #1 plug wire. the Correct timing tab is on the lower left of the balancer... if you are looking at the engine it would be at the 9:00 (o'clock) position...

with the engine warm disconnect the SPOUT and start the engine... set the timing according to specs... you may have to clean the tab to even see it...

 

thanks for the info dr_bowtie. i seem to be able to see the tab but my timing light can't see it or get anywhere near it. the air pump is in the way. going to paint the marks on the harmonic balancer and hope i might be able to get the timing set.

 

should be a clear shot... I have an AIR pump on mine and I can point the gun right at it....

 

Be careful when you reinsert the distributor as it will be stubborn about slipping all the way down into the oil pump. If you happen to lose the TDC then pull the no 1 spark plug and use a screwdriver to make sure the piston is all the way at the top...redneck procedure for sure but it gets the job done! I use whiteout on the damper to make the timing mark easier to see and I have no issues pointing the timing light at the mark...just can't reach the distributor and see the mark at the same time by myself. I usually tighten the distributor bolt just enough to hold it still when the engine is running then adjust it till it lines up with the mark.

reinstall spout and you're done.

 

my dad and i did fight with getting the distributor back in but we got it done. i am pretty sure it is exactly where it should be.
between the alternator, air pump, serpentine belt and mechanical fan i don't see how you guy reach a timing light anywhere near where the marks.

 

The timing light doesn't have to be that near the marks, just point it down toward them, the light is bright enough to illuminate them. Just be aware of the fan and other moving parts.