Question about cam sprocket alignment Options

[Jason ESi-T]

Hey Guys,

I've recently got my rebuilt head(bent valves) back from the machine shop for the Laser and threw it back on my block. Before, I tighten down the head bolts, I was messing with the cam sprockets to make sure they line up at TDC. However, it appears that the TDC lines on the cam sprockets do not line up exactly right. The exhaust side is about one half tooth off from the intake side.

I realize this is all with the timing belt completely off. I guess my question is, is this normal? Will the lines match up after I wrench/turn the sprocket so that the lines match up, and then have the timing belt hold that mark in place, even though thenatural tension of the sprockets has the lines pulling away from eachother at half a tooth?

Thanks in advance! I've not done a timing belt before, and I want to make sure everything is okay.

[awd4kicks]

Yeah Jason, the Exhaust cam will always want to rotate a little bit counter clock wise. The marks won't stay lined up until you get the belt on.

The TB is not impossible to od, just be carefull, take your time and don't be afraid to take it off and do it again if your not comfortable with the alignment of the timing marks. I generaly re-install my belt 2-3 times before I'm satisfied that it is absolutely correct when I do the replacement. If you happen to have the engine out, do it before it goes back in. BIG time saver.

BTW-Are you removing the balance shafts?

Marcus