Nissan Repair: nissan altima, nissan altima, timing pointer

Question
-thanks for that..yah i had a mechanic working on the car,,he replaced the head gasket and when while puting everything back together he wasn't sure where to line up the timing marks..i think this will help..if there is any other suggestions that would be great
thanks
------------------------
Followup To
Question -
motor specifications: 02 nissan altima 2.5 4 cyl
where would the timing marks be pointing to on the cam shaft.  
Answer -
The cam has an access cover that allows you to see that the timing points line up.  You have to look at the cam from the end on the passenger side and see that the points line up.  This is done by making sure the lower pulley is on Top Dead Center and then look to see that the cam and the pointer line up with the inspection cover removed.  I suppose you are wanting to see if the car has jumped timing.  Anyway, this will tell you if the timing belt is stretched or the belt has jumped.

Answer
Becky,

The timing pointer on the crankshaft has to be lined up first and then the camshaft pointer has to be lined up with the pointer on the head.  It is important to use a factory timing belt to get the one with the painted marks on it so it will be easy to make sure everything lines up properly.  Once this is done release the tensioner and you should be good to go.