1947 pontiac ignition problem

[gregory]

Hi,

I am the proud owner of a 1947 pontiac, 4 door sedan, with a streamliner straight 8 L head under the hood. Problem: car has no plug wires. I know the firing order, but not where #1 cylinder is located on the distributor. Could some kind restorer help identify this location on the distributor cap and I can take it from there. I am looking forward to trying to start the engine in the future. Was told it did run smooth when parked years ago. Also, just to be sure, the battery ground is negative?

Thanks for any advice
Greg

[Oldcar_Mechanic]

Put the number one piston at TDC on the compression stroke and see where the rotor is pointing.

Ron

[gregory]

Ron,

Thanks and I thought TDC on #1 is a way to go, but how do I know if both valves are closed on a L-head and not 180 degrees off?

Greg

[Oldcar_Mechanic]

You should be able to feel the compression. Crank the engine around a few times and you will get the feel of the difference.

Ron

[Jon B]

Of course, the unspoken thing here is, that you have to take out the spark plug so you can feel the breeze!

(Be sure to clean out around the plug, so the piston doesn't pull dirt into the cylinder on the downstroke>0