Timing Mark
 

Motor: Kohler K321 with Starter Generator and battery ignition.

Should the "S" mark be centered in the hole or should the line above the "S" mark be centered to line up with the notch on the bearing plate?

Which photo is correct?

second photo :beerchug:

I thought so. But why does everyone say to "center the S or SP mark in the hole"? When you really should be lining up the marks or lining up the lines.

Not all engines have the lines. Some only have a hole and a stamp mark.

Besides, the difference isn't but maybe 1°, so it's not that critical.

What would happen if you static timed the engine using picture #1?

It would run.

If you line it up as in picture #1, then the timing would be retarded by only a few degrees. The engine would certainly run, but what ill effects would this have on the engine and its components over the long haul? Would the engine run hot? Would the engine be difficult to tune correctly?

If it mattered at all, I would have said so. Like I said, it's maybe 1°. Now if your talking about 3°-5°..... you'll start noticing some changes. On the pics you posted, the line by the "S" mark is supposed to be in line with the line on the housing. Set it there and you don't have to worry about what happens if it's not. :beerchug:

FWIW, I'd rather err on the side of advanced 1-2° than retarded.

Hate to :beatdeadhorse: but my flywheel does not have the timing marks of any kind never mind the ones shown in the OP pictures. I was trying to set the static timing this weekend and could not find a mark/line/paint....Nothing. So I just watched the contacts and set them at there largest opening. I have not yet tried to start the tractor so I figured I would ask as I am waiting for my carb rebuild kit to get here.

It does. You just have to find them. They all do. Sometimes they just hide. I've heard guys say this 100X. They're there...... I don't remember what tractor your working on...... help me out, and I can give you some ideas how to find them.