Timing marker

RickC · Post by **RickC** » Thu Apr 14, 2005 1:46 pm

Hi Guys. I bought my 1952 M38 disassembled so bear with me. My jeep has teh motor assembled and installed in the frame. When going thru a box of odds and ends the previous owner had, I found a bolt on timing marker. It fits the bolts on the timing gear cover and looks like it will line up with the embossed marks. Was thsi original to my Jeep? It has OD paint on it. It sure would make timing a lot easier.
Thanks
Rick

OKCM38CDN · Post by **OKCM38CDN** » Thu Apr 14, 2005 3:16 pm

I think it was added after the fact, After 3 cans of Gunk cleaner I found the timing marks on my timing cover. However I have the added markeron mine and as you say makes timing lots easier...

Personal opinion, put it on unless you are going for 100% factory.

Post by **wesk** » Sat Apr 16, 2005 10:24 pm

Most of the parts list data shows the cover number never changed throughout production. But the cover itself did change. Up to about jeep MC56252 it had no marks. They were on the flywheel. After MC56252 the first cover change was to add the raised markings on the front surface of the cover. I believe the bolt on tab was a M38A1 item but may have appeared very late in M38 production.

If you are returning your engine to service with timing indicators of unknown origin then you should check their alignment and accuracy before you start relying on them. With the cover off and the cam/crank gears' marks aligned perfectly in stall the cover and pointer and it should be pointing to TDC exactly. If not make it point there then you can rely on it for ignition timing.