914-6, TDC Z1 Options

[bcheney]

Just posted this on the Bird Board...Let me know if you can help.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/porsche-914...tml#post8543554

[fixer34]

Been a while since I've done this, but if I recall..

As mentioned. the FIRST thing to do is make sure that cylinder 1 is at TDC on the compression stroke. Compression tester, blow air in, rod in spark plug hole, valve lifters, etc. However you chose, but that should also line up the Z1 timing mark with the case mark.

DO NOT turn the engine from this point.

The mark on the distributor is only a reference point for cylinder 1 plug wire. The cap only goes on one way to make sure this lines up.

Since I'm pretty sure the distributor drive gear on the /6 is not keyed (like the VW/type 4's), the distributor can be installed pretty much in any orientation; the important part is that the brass contact on the rotor (I think you had it colored red) points directly at the mark on the distributor body. This should get you close enough to do static timing, or even start the engine and fine adjust with a light.

Once the rotor and distributor body line up though, make sure the plug wire at the mark goes to cylinder 1. Then follow all the wires around the cap in firing order.

As was also noted, it appears you may be at #4 TDC instead of #1. If so, turn the engine thru one full revolution. The brass contact will be closer to the distributor mark, but still not lined up. You can either rotate the distributor body, or remove it and turn the rotor shaft one tooth mark on the gear. (you will go in opposite directions-if you have to turn the distributor body counterclockwise to line them up, you need to turn the rotor shaft clockwise once you remove it. Yeah, I know it's confusing...)