Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Timing pin movement

[Flinty]

Doing the valve lash on the truck today. I applied pressure to the timing pin when I knew darn good and well the engine wasn't at TDC and it popped in about 3/16". In fact, it'll pop in and out about anywhere. How much play do these things have in them? This is the first Time I have ever touched the timing pin though I'm not the original owner of the truck. It wouldn't go in any further when the hole should have been passing by. GRRRR



Thanks for any advice. Jon

 

[Bob4x4]

There is some free travel of the pin in it's bore. To verify the pin is intact remove the retainig ring(basicly a star washer pressed in to the bore)then pull the pin all the way out. It should have a short pin in the center of much smaller diameter. The engine must be rotated in very slow motion and a constant pressure to the pin for it to engauge in the hole. The engine can not be rotated further at that point or the small portion of the pin will be sheared off.



Bob

 

[Flinty]

Bob I took your advice and removed the pin, verified it wasn't broken, grabbed a mirror and watched for the hole to come around. When it did I put the pin back in and it engaged the hole with another 1/4" of movement. For kicks here is what the pin looks like and yes, it'll pop in and out a slight amount prior to lining up with the hole. Thanks very much.

 

[Bob4x4]

Happy to help



Bob

 

[Signal73]

I pull the oring off the timing pin when barring the engine over to ease the movement of the pin.

 

[Forrest Nearing]

people actually use the timing pin?

 

[Signal73]

its kinda barbaric, but it gets you close enough for valve lash.

 

[Flinty]

Hey Forrest, hit me with a link or info on your method.