Greetings all. We own a 1990 Turbo Mirage that broke it's timing belt. As it is an interference engine, we figured it was easier to get a new (wrecking yard) engine to replace it instead of doing the head work. And, as the replacement one was not in the car yet, we thought it would be prudent to change the timing belt before the engine install. However, we are having trouble getting the crankshaft timing mark to be aligned when the camshafts marks are. Seems to be one cog off either before the mark or after the mark. Are there some words of wisdom you can offer to help with this problem or is it really a problem? Feel it might be, because if we ignore it and then try to tension the auto adjuster, we can't get it to go to spec.
We have been following the factory manual's procedure, but are getting frustrated over the last couple of weeks. Any and all help would be appreciated.

Bert

 

Set cylinder 1 to TDC, and observe the timing belt. If it's not right, then the car isn't in time.

Remove the belt, replace all the timing components and water pump, then re-time it properly.

 

sohc or dohc?
Ive found that dohcs will sometimes look off, but come right when the tension is on.
Sohc, one tooth off will be a problem.
As said, make sure 1 is at tdc. Then look at your valve train to make sure both/all #1s rockers are at rest/up, at this point, your crank and cams are in time and the marks should be... Put some tension on it by hand, where the tensioner is, and look again.

 

I think he's saying that when he spins the replacement motor over and checks the timing, they don't line up. Is that what you're saying???

In which case, you may have found why that car was in the junk yard to begin with lol.

 

Engine is a dohc that was tested at the yard before it was pulled. Didn't want to buy engine with low compression,bent values, etc.
Last night we were able to get the auto tensioner to come into spec, but the crankshaft timing mark is still either one tooth shy of the mark or one tooth past. Feels fine when it is turned over, but...
Is there a way to post pictures so you can see what I am talking about?

Bert

 

Yes, upload it to photobucket, and embed it.