Is this out of time?

[usmc0651dns]

I am currently taking the head off to change all gaskets and do some routine maintenance. The car was not running well at all, seemed to be a boost leak around the intake manifold and possibly the head. I just looked at this right before I started to remove the timing belt. Looks to me like it's off by a tooth. This is my first DSM and first ever car with aftermarket cams and cam gears. Thanks for the input.

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[jp91gsturbo]

Yes it does appear to be off a tooth. I dont think one tooth off would make the car run completely like ass though. Fix the boost leaks and get the maintenance done and you should be good.

 

[AK Maniak]

sorry for hijacking but roughly how many teeth does it take being off for stuff to start getting bent or ruined.

 

[2qik4u]

well just from a picture you cant always tell if it is out of time. what you should do is get a straight edge like a ruler and line up the timing marks. when you have them lined up use the straight edge and see if the timing marks line up straight across the centers of the cam gears. also are you turning the motor with that ratchet??? if so DONT!!! only turn the motor over manually using the crank!! I hope the ratchet was only there cause you were ready to take the cam gear off.

 

[euphoria]

It's off and our cars are extremely sensitive about timing. Since you're taking the head off anyway I wouldn't worry about it yet, but once you get the head off look and see if you bent any valves.