Hidden timing mark?
Posted: Wed Nov 22, 2017 2:35 am
My 450 spring-head will not even burp after a two year sleep. I get spark, but nothing (even with squirting starting fluid directly into the cylinder). a ).
What is most noticeable is that I can now kick it through without using the compression release. When it last ran, I could practically stand on the kickstarter and it would not move past the compression stroke. So, suspecting a valve issue, I decided to remove the head. All went according to plan until I encountered the upper bevel gears (yes, I am removing the head and tower as a unit). To the point, I see the timing mark on the gear on the verical shaft, but cannot see a timing mark on the camshaft gear. Is the mark hidden behind the safety washer? and if so, can I just move the lower gear mark to a 12 o'clock position and assume it and the camshaft gear are properly aligned? If I cannot assume this, must I remove the nut and washer to find the timing mark? Can that be done without the Ducati tool to hold the camshaft? P.S.: I am certain that the gearing has not been disturbed.
Thank s for any help and /guidance. Eddie
What is most noticeable is that I can now kick it through without using the compression release. When it last ran, I could practically stand on the kickstarter and it would not move past the compression stroke. So, suspecting a valve issue, I decided to remove the head. All went according to plan until I encountered the upper bevel gears (yes, I am removing the head and tower as a unit). To the point, I see the timing mark on the gear on the verical shaft, but cannot see a timing mark on the camshaft gear. Is the mark hidden behind the safety washer? and if so, can I just move the lower gear mark to a 12 o'clock position and assume it and the camshaft gear are properly aligned? If I cannot assume this, must I remove the nut and washer to find the timing mark? Can that be done without the Ducati tool to hold the camshaft? P.S.: I am certain that the gearing has not been disturbed.
Thank s for any help and /guidance. Eddie