Timing a TJ

I have a 2005 Wrangler and have replaced the plugs, ignition rail, and OPDA. When I replaced the OPDA I didn't have it secured fully in the hole and when I started the engine it started clacking. Immediately shut it down and tightened it up. Now my timing is off and I am trying to figure out how to time it. Usually the timing light is attached to number one plug, but these have ignition rail so I can't get to the plugs without pulling the entire tail and then you can't start the engine. I can drive the Jeep but it doesn't like to start and issues bad when rev'd above 2,000 rpms. Suggestions?

 

What are you calling an "OPDA"?

 

Oil pump drive assembly. That's what Quadratec calls them, others call them a camshaft position synchronizer. It's the distributor and also drives the oil pump through a slot at the bottom of the shaft.

 

Just wanted to make sure we are on the same page I have only known it as a camshaft synchronizer. So, you need to TDC the engine on number 1 and on the "opda" there are two holes that need to be lined up. First one is in the housing and the other one is in the rotational ring. once they are lined up and the engine is on TDC you can then reinstall the opda. Oil pump down inside should be at the 11 o'clock position. Once you have it installed the housing on the opda will rotate so you can align the two holes we talked about earlier. Once aligned tighten it down and the computer will do the rest!

 

Thanks, I really appreciate the input. If I didn't have a '78 Little Red Express truck, I would get rid of my timing light.
Questions though...
Is the only way to find TDC is to remove the ignition rail, pull the number one spark plug, put something in the hole to measure the stroke and when the piston is at top, that's it? How do I know if it is exhaust or compression stroke? I know this may sound lame, and it may not make any difference, but it seems to me it would.
Also, when the computer takes care of the rest, is that the on board computer or do I need to plug something into the OBD system?

 

Yes the engine needs to be on the compressing stroke in the # 1 cylinder. Best way, pull the #1 plug then put your finger in the hole and bar the engine over by hand until you feel air being pushed by your finger. Then look at the notch on the crankshaft pulley and line it up with the 0 or tdc mark on the timing cover and that will be top dead center #1. As far as the computer goes it is set from the factory so no need to plug in just do a battery disconnect to reset codes.

 

Thanks so much. Still uncertain on how one knows whether it is impression or exhaust stroke. Do I need to lift the valve cover?
Or really doesn't matter? I know this is frustrating for you but I really appreciate the advice. My OPDA came intoday and I plan on swapping it back out again tomorrow.

 

Compression
Not
Impression.

 

Again, yes it needs to be on the compression stroke. You know that it is because when you put your finger in the spark plug hole pressure will only build on the compression stroke.

 

Of course, all valves closed so pressure builds. Duh
Got it thanks so much.