Setting Initial Timing

[DaddysTruck]

Does this look like the correct rotor and housing position for beginning to set the timing?

Also the shop manual says to have cylinder #1 on compression stroke, but didn't say whether it should be as soon as the intake valve closes or at TDC.

 

[RonD]

#1 TDC 0deg compression stoke is the starting reference point for all engine timing

Distributor placement is more about TFI module clearance from firewall when engine is installed, same for older Vacuum advance distributors, you need to be able to rotate the distributor a bit to set timing with engine running, so you want it where TFI module/connector won't hit anything when you rotate it, i.e. firewall, valve cover, carb or linkages

This thread has drawing of distributor placement showing tabs and firing order on cap: http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/2_8L_Performance.html
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You may want to clean up the crank pulley, but from the looks of engine now it probably is already cleaned up
Nice work
And then mark pulley for 10deg BTDC if it can't be seen easily now, 12deg BTDC is what most prefer

 

[adsm08]

There should be two score marks cut into the dis stem. With the crank at TDC the rotor should point directly between them. If you center the rotor on the one farthest counter-clockwise it should place the rotor centered (more or less) when it is in the whole way. TFI plug should point out straight and parallel to the back of the valve cover. This will put you almost spot on, and give you the room to make any wanted adjustments.

 

[DaddysTruck]

Thank you, I believe I have it now. I set cylinder #1 at TDC visually through the spark plug hole, the timing pointer was right at the 0 mark on the crank pulley, and the distributor slid in pointing exactly at the #1 post.

 

[AndyB.]

Mine was pointing in roughly that direction. I'd pay attention to the vanes passing through the gate. When a vane is centered in the gate, it will fire.

 

[DaddysTruck]

Mine was pointing in roughly that direction. I'd pay attention to the vanes passing through the gate. When a vane is centered in the gate, it will fire.

Right, it's right on the money. Just a little turn of the housing should tune it in.