Nissan Repair: cam timing, nissan bluebird, balance shaft

Question
I'd like to know how to set the cam timing on a U13 diesel motor. 1997 nissan bluebird jap import

Answer
Keith,

I do not have the specifics on your engine.  We do not have these in the United States that I have seen.  But, the way you line up timing marks on most engines is to run the engine over to top dead center and then remove the cover.  Since yours is a diesel it probably has a counter-balance shaft too.  After you remove the cover note where the gears line up.  That is, there is usually a dot with a corresponding mark for each gear.  I like to use carburettor cleaner to get the oil off the marks and then use white paint and dab a bit on each mark so it will make them easier to keep track of.  Now, the big thing is getting everything to stay lined up after you put a new chain on.  You have to spin the engine over, the direction it normally turns, and then stop on top dead center again to make sure it is on the marks and the tension on the chain has not led you to get the gear one tooth of.  Might take a couple of times to get it right.  If yours has an oil fed tensioner you will want to follow the specific instructions to get it right for tension on the chain.  Also, if you have a cam chain follower and guides make sure they are in good shape or replace them with the chain.