Motorcycle Repair: timing belt and cams, compression stroke, shift focus

Question
Mark,
I have a problem with my 1993 honda st1100.I installed a new clutch on my bike.In doing so i snapped one of the long bolts that hold the clutch cover on.I was able to get the broken piece out but I had to remove the crank bolt(The one that has t1-1 and t1-4 on it.my problem is that the cams moved slightly when doing this.I removed the cams and wanted to start from scratch.The manual says to line up the T1 mark with the pointer on the case.Then you are supposed to set the cams in place with the lines on the outer part of the camsfacing outwards.I've done that but I am not sure that I turned the crank enough.I thought that when you did this that the number 1 piston would be up at the top.I removed the spark plug and put a pencil in the hole.when i set the t-1 on the crank bolt the pencilwas not up at all.Any help would be appreciated    Thank you -Dave Laub

Answer
Hi Dave,

I don't think removing the cams was necessary. The cams moved, but that didn't damage anything. It would have been easier to reinstall the timing plate. It has locators for proper installation. On a positive note, It's a good learning experience.

The pencil may not reach TDC (top dead center) with the timing mark alligned. The pencil may have leaned or angled such that is reaches further into the cylinder. Have to keep a grip on it as piston travels.

Be certain the piston is on the COMPRESSION STROKE when aligning the timing marks. Put a finger over spark plug hole while rotating crankshaft to allign marks. When air escapes past finger, you're on compression stroke. Shift focus to timing mark as TDC is soon approaching.

If you still have difficulty, advise. Please include your email address as requested. I return repair files via email.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively