Timing Belt 180 off?

2004 NISSAN XTERRA
180,000 MILES • 3.3L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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XTERRA55
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I put crankshaft at 0 degrees, but forgot to align to cylinder one, then moved the camshaft manually to the corresponding marks. Worried it is off (at exhaust phase vs compression phase). Can I correct by moving the camshafts back?
Jan 31, 2023 at 7:15 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

I'm not sure I follow. Did you have the timing marks aligned? As far as timing is concerned, it is very important to get it right on this. It is an interference engine. I wouldn't suggest turning the cam in reverse.

Take a look at the two pics below. Is this where the timing marks were located?

Let me know.

Joe
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Jan 31, 2023 at 9:00 PM
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XTERRA55
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Yes, I aligned the markings of the belt, and pully marks and back part of the cover. This was done after the fact. I believe the belt was removed at TDC that didn't correspond to Cylinder 1 compression.
Jan 31, 2023 at 9:33 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi,

If you have the engine at TDC and align the timing marks on the camshafts, it should be fine. The part that is confusing me is the idea that the pulley can be 180 degrees out. It should only fit one way. When it's at TDC, cylinder 1 valves should be the furthest away from opening. See if that is the case.

Let me know. Also, if possible, take a few pics and upload them for me to see.

Take care,

Joe
Feb 1, 2023 at 1:25 PM