'92 2.3 timing mark conundrum

[rdsrds123]

So, I got this '92 2.3 from the junkyard, but I contacted the former owner, and he said it was a good running engine. I'm getting ready to install it.

The problem is that I want to replace the timing belt first, but the cam and crank marks don't line up. When the crank is TDC, the cam is about 10-12 degrees off. When the cam lines up with it's mark, the crank is 20 degrees after TDC. What to do?

Could this be a problem where a former owner swapped sprockets from a different year ranger?

Would this engine run "good" with the timing belt this far off?

Should I just remove the belt and line the marks up and install the new belt that way?

 

[Mikel89us]

Line up the crank. The timing has probably jumped and you need to re align them.

 

[Mikel89us]

It can still run one tooth off.

 

[tomw]

Well, you numbers make sense. The cam turns 1/2 the amount the crank turns. Get the crankshaft to TDC using the timing marks on the belt cover or the woodruff key at 12:00. Check that the triangle on the cam sprocket is aligned with the pointer, around the 4:00 o'clock position. Depending on your ignition system, the aux may not need to be aligned with anything. If you have a distributor, the pointer should be very near the #1 plug wire socket in the cap. Release the tensioner and allow it to put spring tension on the belt. Do not add any more tension. Rotate through a couple turns, and check that the marks are in alignment. When you thread the belt, you want all the 'slack' to be on the belt between the cam sprocket, the tensioner and the crank sprocket.
tom