You can set timing on most injector pump type diesels by removing all the injector fuel lines from the pump. Rotate the engine in the direction of rotation until you see the exhaust valve on #1 cyl close. Continue rotating the engine until top dead center is reached on the flywheel indicator. Now back the engine up (reverse rotation) about 1/4 turn. Put a little fuel into the top opening of #1 injector pump outlet (where you removed the injector line). Wipe off the excess fuel so the puddle on top of the pump outlet is concave. Very slowly using a pry bar on the fly wheel teeth, one tooth at a time, turn the flywheel in the direction of rotation, all the while watching the fuel puddle in the pump. As soon as the puddle moves the slightest amount, from concave to convex, stop and look at the timing marks. If your timing should be 14 degrees BTDC the flywheel marker should read 14. If it does not than most manufactures use slotted holes in the pump mounting flange to allow you to rotate the pump a little to adjust the timing, much like turning old style distributors.. After moving the pump and retightening it the process must be repeated. You can also do the inverse to rough set the timing. That is, set the flywheel to the proper advance mark and very carefully rotate the entire pump in the mounting until the fuel puddle moves. You must then redo the first process for fine tuning.
Should the puddle not move than you are probably 180 degrees out. The easiest remedy is to remove the pump turn the pump shaft 180 and reinsert and try again.
I have used this method hundreds of time and it has always worked well. It will only work on engines with inline or rotary high pressure unit pumps.
Should the puddle not move than you are probably 180 degrees out. The easiest remedy is to remove the pump turn the pump shaft 180 and reinsert and try again.
I have used this method hundreds of time and it has always worked well. It will only work on engines with inline or rotary high pressure unit pumps.