Nissan Repair: Finding top dead center, nissan sentra, alignment marks

Question
how do I find top dead center on a 97 nissan sentra? Also any tips on replacing the distributor when I do?

Answer
Hi Larry -

The easiest way is to remove the distributor cap and rotate the engine manually until the rotor is pointing at the number 1 cylinder tower on the distributor cap (mark the #1 tower on the distributor since you will be removing the cap). Once that is done, you may fine tune the position by checking the alignment marks on the damper.

the distributor removal is fairly simple, as it can only be installed one way. However just to ensure you have the timing right, mark the location of the distributor by scribing the base and it's location on the engine.

Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin