Savage_Rob wrote on 12/31/69 at 16:00:06:No, I was retorquing the head cover bolts at TDC and just figured it was time to adjust 'em while I was in there. I must admit the instructions in the Clymer are a little odd - at least to me. I mean, I see the timing mark and can align it easily enough for TDC - now whether that is TDCC I don't know. The Clymer says to set it at the mark and then check that all rockers have free play. Then it goes on to say that if they don't, you should rotate the engine another 180 degrees and check again for free play and to be sure it's on the timing mark again too. NOW, if it was on the timing mark and I rotate it 180 degrees, it darn sure won't be on the timing mark again. I'll play with it some more tomorrow and won't crank it until I'm sure I've done it properly but if someone could clarify how to achieve TDCC, it'd be helpful. I guess I could always pull the plug and insert a dowel to see when the piston rises. Nah, the piston has to rise on the exhaust stroke too. Hmmm... I'll get it one way or another.
Confusing? Maybe. There are 2 TDC positions. One on the exhaust stroke (with the exhaust valves open) and one on the compression stroke with all valves closed. That is where you want to be.
If you find it easier, you can remove the plug to rotate the engine. To feel when the valves are free is a matter of touch, though. Very small movement. Just watch the valves as you go through a couple revolutions and you'll see where the position is....