Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): GX160 cam setup, piston rings, cam setup


Question
Hello
I recently picked up a 5.5HP GX160 Honda to put on a 20" reel mower. It was on an old pump that had fallen into a dam and subsequently siezed up. I have stripped it and managed to free it up without causing damage to the piston/rings and seems to be in pretty good nick. The only problem is during the procedure the cam fell out and I cant see how the timing is supposed to be set. I have found a timing mark on the flywheel and crankcase but I cant see where the cam timing mark lines up with. Hopefully you can shed some light on this for me.
Regards

Answer
Hi Chris,
The procedure for re-inserting the cam is rather simple. On the crankshaft you will find a small metal gear; there should be a dimple or other visible mark on it. This mark should point towards the camshaft; there is a mark on the camshaft that it should line up with. If the cam is metal, it's mark should be a hole or dimple; if it is not metal, it should be a dimple or notch. It may be difficult to replace the cam, but keep in mind that the cam has to be secure for the engine to run saftely. Hope I helped!
-Steve