Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Timing Pin came all the way out

[mtnranch]

First of all, I understand why the location of the 12V timing

pin is unpopular, probably hated. I was adjusting valves, found TDC just fine

and marked the harmonic balancer so I would not need to deal with the pin again, then I had a hard time disengaging the pin. I made up a small

fork to grab the head and pull it back, worked fine except

it popped the whole pin and retainer out. The retaining clip

is a star spring type, looks like it would be EZ to install if the

engine was out of the truck, but there is no good leverage in that dinky

space between the PS pump and block.

What do you think guys? If I can't re-install the original retainer,

will the pin stay put with the O-ring as friction? I could also dab

a bit of sealer in the spot the retaining was as insurance.

The long road home would be to pull the power steering pump

for slighty improved access. I'll skip the wine cork idea one guy had.

What has your experience been with this?

 

[Joe G.]

I could not get my retainer clip back in so I left it out. That was at least 100K miles ago. The O-ring is the only thing holding the pin in. If it was going to fall out it should have done it by now.

 

[SEmerson]

I too have only the o ring. seems fine.

 

[mtnranch]

Thanks Joe G and SEmerson, now I know I'm not
the only timing pin ejection expert. I'll stick the pin
(actually more a 3/4" plug) back in and won't worry
about it. Thanks for the quick replys, I'm back on
the road!