Timing a 350

[68gmsee]

As mentioned, you have to be on top dead center of the #1 spark plug on the compression stroke.

The way I do it:

If you don't have a helper or a remote push button starter, remove all the spark plugs to make it easier to turn the engine. With a 1/2 inch ratchet and socket in the crank pulley bolt, turn the engine with finger in the #1 spark plug hole. When I feel air pressure, I either watch the piston or insert a thin wooden dowel until I make sure the piston is at the very top (just before it comes back down).

That is TDC and the balancer should be aligned with the mark and rotor pointing to the #1 spark plug wire.