258 timing

Hey Guys,

I'm Bert (76 CJ5/46 CJ2a) For my 76 CJ5 just bought a 258 from a guy near here. It has a Carter 2bbl and appears to be either a 77 or 78 model engine. Smog stuff is removed. The engine in the vehicle with a new clutch now but I cannot get it timed/started. I dropped in a new prestolite ignition module because the old one was leaking. The grounds are good and the ohm/voltage checks dictated by the FSM are ok. I have a factory service manual and have followed it step by step.

When the timing mark on the main crank gets to #1 piston I swear the piston is at the bottom of the stroke. When I work the piston to the top (both valves closed) the timing mark is 180 degrees off.

Fuel flow is good and I get spark to the plugs. What could I be missing here? Before I tear it down to install new timing gears and/or an HEI distributor I'd really appreciate your opinion. I mean, the gear on the main crank can only go on one way and I sure don't want to reinstall the old 232.

Thanks! Bert

 

Welcome from central Va. I really can't help you with your problem just thought I should introduce myself.

 

if it were me, I'd forget the timing marks for now.
Crank the engine over and bring #1 on compression up to TDC (top dead center)
it must be on the compression stroke for this to occur; put a comp gauge or your finger over the hole while turning then engine.
Now look at the timing mark; it should also be right on the mark; if the chain is off a tooth it could be 6*-8* off in either direction; that doesn't matter right now.
Then pull the dist cap off; rotor should be pointing to #1 on the cap; if not, pull dist and reset.
With fuel, spark, and proper/close timing, it should now start and/or at least backfire.