help with timing my 2.9L

[broncodave93]

I know how to time a ford with the spout connector.....I just can't figure out the best way to get to the bolt that holds down the distributor. Are you guys using a long extension with a "wobbly" socket at the end? or try to cram your arm down between the motor and firewall and use a wrench??? any help would be nice

 

[Hahnsb2]

I used a ratchet with a 13mm socket before my body lift, with the body lift I can reach back there really easily with a wrench.

 

[AllanD]

And I'm probably the only one who will say I have the CORRECT
(and L O N G discontinued) SnapOn Distributor wrench.

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[2manyfords]

I go after it from the drivers side with a short 13mm wrench.
It's a bitch loosening it if it's tight but it can be done.

 

[Jspafford]

I had good luck with a ratchet from right next to the driverside front tire. Honestly, I didn't have much trouble getting to mine at all.

 

[Psychopete]

I recall having to use a 13mm wrench. I am ~6' and 140lbs, so I can fit my hands and arms around/through things pretty easily. I do remember it being kind of awkward. Just take a varitey of stuff with you (extensions, wrenches, deep/short sockets, etc) and just find something that works for you. Seems that a ratchet w/ swivel head would be a good fit, but I am not looking at the engine right now . Those always help extensively on top bell housing bolts.

Pete

 

[AllanD]

BTW, I just gotta ask...

why do you NEED to adjust the timing?

Timing on a 2.9 is only off if something is worn.

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[broncodave93]

I needed to set the timing cause I just swapped in a used 2.9 in my 89 bronco2 and for some reason the distributor was loose. I managed to get to the bolt by using a socket wrench with a short extension and a short wobbly 13mm. thanks for the ideas guys

 

[AllanD]

Ahhh.. the other reason, so previous engine plumber messed with it before you arrived...

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