Motorcycle Repair: Timing, harley sportster, cam gears

Question
1982 harley sportster XLH 1000/with electric start

when you line up the timing marks on the cam gears,do one of the pistons have to be at top dead center.If so which piston needs to be at top position.

Thanks for your support
Joe  

Answer
Hi Joe.

There should be "T" and "F" marks for each piston.  They will be at different points on the timing plate.

Each piston should be at TDC when you do the valve gap.  When the timing plate is alligned to each mark, then each piston will be in the correct position for what you are doing, be it timing or valves.

Good luck and ride safe.
FALCON