Thread: Timing gear instal on 400M

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I don't remember if the 400 M's were retarded on the cam or not. I don't really see any reason you couldn't set the cam in their straight up???? Unless Denny or somebody knows of a situation on a 400 M that a straight up cam wouldn't work.... Just replacing a worn chain and gear does a lot to help the performance on a high mileage engine....

I have a 400M out of a 1977 Lincoln. It had all the first generation smog crap on it, it is all gone now! I have an aftermarket 4 barrel and intake.

I believe that my new timing set has three key ways, one at 0, one at 4 plus and one at 4-, does that sound right (I am not at home to look).

OK, help me wrap my mind around this. When the stock timing set is lined up mark to mark, it will be at 6 degrees of retard, only one keyway, only one setting. If I put the new timing set in at 0, it will be set at 0, and I will have advanced the timing 6 degrees?

Will the cam need to be "degreed?" This is a task I have already decided is outside of my ability.

Thanks,
CHAZ