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Forum > Emissions Component > Question

1989 Ford Aerostar No Timing Mark

I am servicing a 1989 Ford Aerostar. When I purchased this vehicle, I was led to believe that the engine had been replaced. When I sought to have the Smog System Checked, I learned that the vehicle (this may apply to all 89 Aerostars?) was labeled as a Gross Polluter and required testing at a Test Only Station.

Upon taking the vehicle to a Test Only Station, I was informed that they could not check it. They stated that part of the Requirements for this vehicle, was to check the Ignition Timing and that no Timing Marks could be found. Being a Test Only Station, they would not or could not suggest any solution to this problem.

I then took the vehicle to a second Test Only Station and they did not reject it for the Timing Mark issue. It did fail the first test for a different issue, but after replacing the Catalytic Converter it did pass. Recently, the vehicle was involved in an accident. While making repairs, I had the Grille, Radiator, etc. removed and made a thorough inspection looking for the Timing Marks. I was able to find, what might be the remains of a Pointer on the Block. However, there are no markings on the Harmonic Balancer Pulley.

I assume, that when this vehicle is due for the next Smog Check, it will still be labeled as a Gross Polluter and still require testing at a Test Only Station. I know of no way of identifying the vintage of the replacement engine, to find out if that year model may not require the Ignition Timing Check (and maybe not be labeled as a Gross Polluter). So how can I replace the lost Timing Marks or avoid the Check Ignition Timing issue? Sure, I could replace the Harmonic Balancer Pulley with one with Timing Marks. But, how do I fix the missing Pointer on the Block?


Answer:

Your 1989 Ford Aerostar's harmonic balancer must have a timing mark, unless the balancer or the engine is of that year model not requiring a timing inspection (computer control timing models).

We recommend cleaning the crankshaft pulley and harmonic balancer, and inspecting it closely for a timing mark (notch). It is also possible the harmonic balancer has slipped and the notch is no where near top dead center. You'll need to be very tedious in looking for the timing mark.

As far as the timing mark on the block, you are allowed to locate the mark as best as possible and re-mark it with industrial paint, so long as you ensure the mark is set accurately and appears to be professionally re-set. Typically an experienced smog check station can remark the engine block. At times even a smog check station will refer and recommend the State Smog Check Referee's Office remark missing/damaged timing marks on an engine block.


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