Motorcycle Repair: Cam Timing - Honda CB77, honda cb77, adjustment screws

Question
Good day, Bill.  I recently rebuilt the top end of my 1965 CB77, failing to properly examine whether or not I positioned my cam chain correctly.  (I didn't use the marks like I should have, rather I put the chain back on in the same place I removed it - according to a photo taken during disassembly)  I need to know if I can tell, from the mark on the end of my camshaft that is visible when I remove the points adjustment cover, if I have the chain in there correctly.

Also, if I was to pop the engine open again, is it the 'T' that should line up with the red marker on the flywheel (at~10:00).  And then where does the camshaft need to be positioned?

I have about 10 days to get out of my apartment and need to get this done; I'm losing my garage.  My repair manual's bound to show up in the mail soon enough, but I really want to finish this up.

Thanks for your help.  Your repair CD is on the way to my door, too, Bill.  It just hasn't shown up yet!

Tim.

Answer
Tim, the quickest way to find out is to check the ignition timing. The points cam runs inside the camshaft, attached to the camsprocket. If the timing can be set so the points open at the F mark and the adjustment screws are somewhere in the range of the slots on the backing plate, then the cam timing is correct. If they are WAY over to the ends, either way, then you could be off a tooth. Of course if the motor doesn't turn over all the way, then the cam timing is WAY out! Valves are hitting the piston...

If you have to pull it and reset it....
Crankshaft set at the T mark... right side piston up. Camsprocket has a large flat along the face with a punch mark at 12 o'clock position. Assemble chain when they are in that sequence. You should also notice that the mark on the end of the points cam (!) is UP at the top.. 12 o'clock position, too.  When everything is aligned as described, the cam timing will be correct and nothing will crash into each other inside.

Bill Silver