timing for 3.0

Can anyone out there tell me why the rotor does not point to #1 spark plug wire in the distributor cap when the engine is at TDC? Engine seems to run and start fine, although when I put my foot in it, it knocks like the timing is off. It isn't off by a little, it is off by a lot.

Does the rotor point 180 degrees out? You might be on the exhaust stroke. If you haven't tampered w/the engine then most likely you have a timing belt issue.

No not 180 out. More like about 60. When I got the engine both the timing belts were off and also the crank pulley. So I started from scratch. The marks all line up and the engine runs and starts good. Just can't figure out why it would run. When I move the distributor to a different tooth, it will not run.

I'd recheck my timing marks. That knocking is an indication of way too much advance.

I have checked and double checked. Could my distributor be the problem, the crank or cam sensor?

You are super sure you have the right firing order for your model motor? Sounds like the distributor should be closer than 60* out.

Turn the cap upside down and you will the pin for number 1 spark plug is NOT under where the #1 spark plug is. The first time I looked under ther I do have a reason why it is. But you will see. You are not 60degess off or 180.

I finally figured that out. The timing was o.k. The knock was piston slap so I rebuilt the engine and it runs super now.