Nissan Repair: 87 d21 4x4. z24i engine, crank shaft, haynes manual

Question
I recently thought i blew my engine and was planning to replace the engine so i didnt mark the crank or camshaft positions or the distributor before dismantling it. I found out it was only a head gasket and replaced it, along with all the other upper gaskets. I have a haynes manual but still cannot seem to get my trucks ignition timing to a point where it will start. It wont even backfire. Ive checked the coils and plugs and both are getting fire and douple even triple checked the firing order. What do i do now? What is the correct timing spec for this model engine?

Answer
Hi Charles -

Please check the timing chain alignment on your vehicle -

Turn crank till number one cylinder is at top dead center on compression stroke. Both intake and exhaust valves will be closed. Turn cam till key way on cam sprocket is at 12 oclock position as well the crank shaft key way should also be at 12 o'clock position. The cam mark should be at about the 3 o'clock position and the crank mark will be about the 5 o'clock position. Look at the timing chain and find the two links that are a different color check the chain links so as to match these two links to timing marks on sprockets.

Hope this helps -

aloha
calvin