Not to remove the plugs. You would want to set it on TDC of the compression stroke on the #1 cylinder if you were removing the distributor.
I've always just removed plug #1 so I can see the piston and stick my finger in the hole to make sure it's the compression stroke ...
Thanks, I wasn't sure if it would be earier to turn by removing all the plugs. I now have my mini project for tonight.
When your turning the engine it might get tough as a cylinder comes up on the compression stroke. Let the cylinder pressure bleed down for a few seconds and continue turning the engine. But like Dan said remove the number one plug and place your thumb in the spark plug hole. Pull the coil wire and have someone bump the starter until the compression pops your thumb out of the hole. You will now be close to TDC. Lot easier than turning the engine.
you can also feel for the piston on its way up with a pencil or screwdriver, then when the #1 piston is on top, align the timing marks to 0* degrees. remove the passenger valve cover and check the rocker arms are resting on the base circle of the cam, they will wigle a little bit... their use to be a piston stop that you threaded in the sparkplug socket to check true TDC without dismantling the motor,you turned by hand slowly in both directions making reference marks on the damper using the timing pointer. true TDC would be the center in between the marks made, make a permanent mark spot on...this method you can check timing chain slop and the harmonic damper for slippage... this is GTKS...good luck...
How 'bout removing all the plugs except #1, then when you do start to encounter some resistance you'll know you're starting the compression stroke. Then pull that plug and check the piston? Of course I'd only do that on an engine that's convenient to reach the plugs, and a 302 Maverick does not qualify as that.
