timing

[txgambler]

how do you know if number one piston is top dead center , on exhaust or combustion stroke with out head being on vehicle.I assume the cams will need to be pointing at each other, just dont want to install on wrong stroke. 2004 aveo 1.6

[petrified.rabbit]

In reality, if you have it torn down that far, it doesn't matter. Since there is no other "timed" things in the engine case the ecu "figures" it out.

[txgambler]

If understand correct long as number one piston is up and cams are pointing at each other it is all good.
Then once it is all together checking compression on number one piston the cams are oppositeof each other.where im confused is back in the day was always told top dead center is compression stroke up

[ontarian_frog]

You time the engine by lining up the camshafts and crankshaft gears. There is only one good combination.

I believe you line up the mark on the crankshaft gear with the notch on the block (which should close to the 6 o' clock position) and the camshaft gear marks should be facing each other at 3 o' clock for the intake and 9 o' clock for exhaust. A service manual explains it really well and a camshaft locking tool works wonders.

[thehunterooo]

Told you you would get replys

[txgambler]

Thanks just trying to get as much input as i can , have one shot dont want to screw the valves up . Another question is it a must to change head bolts or only a recommendation when reinstalling the head? Trying to do this as cheap and correct as i can

[thehunterooo]

They say to use new ones, I would use new ones, they are not too much $$$ anyways.

[txgambler]

95 bucks for bolts ,but sure as sht i dont replace ill have other issues

[txgambler]

All good runs very smooth

[thehunterooo]

Awesome, enjoy the next 60k miles