MM U302 Super Flywheel Markings

Recently I was setting the valve lash on our MM U302 gas and I noticed that the timing marks on the flywheel only coincided with pistons #2 and 3 were at TDC. I know depending on the bolt spacing on the flywheel that some can be installed 180 degrees off or in certain cases they can either be installed at any orientation or only one specific way but I am unsure as to how the flywheel is on a U302 but it seems unconventional to have the timing marks line up when pistons #2 and 3 are TDC. This motor was rebuilt years ago and I would just like confirmation regarding how the flywheel is supposed to be installed from factory.

Also, my tech manual does not describe or illustrate how the valve tappets are to be set like it does for the M670, G1000, etc. On these other models is shows put the #1 piston on TDC and setting certain valves and then rotating the engine to have #4 for M670 or #6 for G1000 on TDC and then setting the remaining valves. For the U302 it does not describe this at all so once again I am concerned about how the flywheel has been installed and if this is correct or not and if anyone knows where I can find the valve tappet procedure described or is it considered to be the same as the M670.

Thanks in advance for your help.

Hi there, the 302 flywheel can be installed anywhichway but loose or backwards. If the timing marks are important to you make a new mark of your own design at TDC. I know I'll probably hear guff about this, but I was taught by an old time mechanic to set valves with 1 fully open and adjust the closed valve at that time. Seems to work, been doing it that way for over 50 years, sometimes 200+ engines per year. That even works on our Mo Power alky super stock pulling tractor, Merry Christmas, Dale and Doug, River Dale Farms.

I agree with you on setting the valves. I used to worry about doing it by the book, and now I get them set pretty quick. It takes practice.

I agree with R.D F. You know the cam is at the low point when the other valve is fully open.
MMDEL

Thanks guys!!! I also set the valves differently then the book says based on what my engine machinist had taught me but I guess my main question is what was the original location of the flywheel (stock location)? Were they put on with timing marks lining up when piston #1 and #4 are on TDC OR when #2 and #3 are on TDC? I know it is not of great importance but I am just curious to know if it is now on correctly or if it had been put on differently then stock when it was rebuilt.

Thanks again guys for all your responses!!!

Whoever put the flywheel on was not paying attention. It will fit in any position so you have to think about it when installing. It won't hurt anything being off just have to use a different cylinder when timing ignition.

I have set valves the same way as R D F does, one closed the other one open, not had any problems for 50 yrs.+. clint