TDC- Top dead center, finding and setting timing.

When finding TDC Top Dead Center its important that you check that both valves to the number one cylinder is closed. Number one cylinder is always the front right hand passenger side. Easiest way is to pull the valve cover and turn the motor manualy at the crank until you can see that the timing pointer is at 0. At the same time as the valves is closed.

Remember that the crank rotates 2 turns so only one is the true TDC.
Thats why its important that you check that your valves is closed.
The motor rotates anticlockwise seen from the backend and also the distributor seen from the front of motor.. When setting the timing disconnect the vacuum hose at the distributor and turn the distributor clockwise to the Ford specification (8-12 degrees before TDC), then adjust more or less until you are satisfied.

Both valves is closed, springs extended and push rod side is down.



Timing pointer is at 0, inner scale. I have painted the edge  of the pointer and the markings red to get more visibility.



When you do find the TDC you can mark for an example the number 1 cylinder with a mark at the intake.
Pull the distributor cap and maek the position on the intake where rotor points. Then you always know where it is and before you take the distributor off you turn motor to the TDC.
 (Note the red mark at the intake).

You can use any post as the no 1 for the cylinder 1 as long as the the rotor point to that post  at the same time as the pistons is in the TDC for the no 1 cylinder.
The rotor in the distributor rotates anti clock wise (<<<).

Firing orders.

289-302W

1 5 4 2 6 3 7 8

Note: After market cams for the 289-302 may have the firing order seen below.
Also the 5.0 EFI (302W) have the firing order below

5.0 EFI, 351W & 351C

1 3 7 2 6 5 4 8