How to Set KA24E / KA24DE Cam Timing & Install the Distributor Drive Spindle

Complete Nissan 240SX Timing Chain Guide

Having trouble getting your Nissan 240SX KA24E or KA24DE engine to hit 10° BTDC? If your timing won’t dial in, it likely means your oil pump and distributor drive spindle isn’t aligned properly. This tutorial shows you how to correctly set cam timing and align the spindle so you can get your engine running smooth again.

Step 1: Set Engine to TDC on the Compression Stroke

Before realigning the drive spindle, you must verify the engine is at Top Dead Center (TDC) on the compression stroke of cylinder #1.

Here’s how:

1. Remove the #1 spark plug.
2. Place your thumb over the spark plug hole.
3. Rotate the crankshaft manually using a ratchet and socket.
4. When you feel pressure building under your thumb, the piston is on its compression stroke.
5. Use a wooden dowel or screwdriver in the spark plug hole to feel when the piston reaches the top — this is TDC.

Now, visually confirm the timing mark on the crankshaft pulley aligns with the 0° mark on the timing cover.

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Step 2: Identify the Stroke (Compression vs. Exhaust) KA24e

Both the compression and exhaust strokes bring the piston to TDC. To confirm you’re on the compression stroke:

• Remove the valve cover.
• Look at the camshaft sprocket:
  • The keyway should be at 12 o’clock.
  • The timing dot on the sprocket should point to 3 o’clock.

✅ This confirms the engine is at TDC on the compression stroke.

🔧 Note: You may see a bright link on the timing chain aligned with the sprocket dot during chain installation. This alignment is only valid at initial install. If the engine has been rotated since, ignore the bright link — it has no relevance for future timing.

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Step 3: Distributor Drive Spindle Alignment

With the engine at TDC on the compression stroke, remove the distributor. The top of the oil pump drive spindle (also known as the distributor spindle) is shaped like a half-moon or a capital “D”.

When properly aligned:

• The rounded side of the “D” faces the radiator.
• The flat side points to about 11:45, when viewed from the passenger side fender.
• This alignment ensures the distributor can be timed properly to reach 10° BTDC.

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Step 4: Reinstalling the Oil Pump and Spindle

If the drive spindle is not aligned correctly, you’ll need to remove the oil pump to adjust it.

Factory Service Manual (FSM) Method:

• Align punch marks on the oil pump and spindle before installation.
• This method can work, but due to gear rotation during install, final alignment must always be visually confirmed.

Recommended Hands-On Method:

1. Align the punch mark on the drive spindle with the oil pump.
2. Separate the spindle from the pump and set the oil pump aside on the crossmember.
3. Install the spindle alone, checking the top alignment.
4. If the spindle isn’t aligned, gently lower it to disengage the gear, rotate slightly, and reinsert.
5. Once aligned (flat side of “D” at 11:45), hold the spindle in place with your right index finger.
6. Quickly install the oil pump using your left hand, sliding it up into the timing cover.
7. While holding the pump in place, install the bolts—do not let go until one bolt is snug.
8. Tighten all bolts and complete installation.

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Step 5: Reassemble and Verify Timing

With the spindle properly installed:

• Reinstall the distributor and valve cover.
• Set ignition timing to 10° BTDC using a timing light.
• Start the engine and verify correct operation.

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Final Notes

Proper alignment of the drive spindle is critical for setting accurate ignition timing on your KA24E or KA24DE engine. This DIY method ensures the engine’s distributor and timing chain are in sync, allowing your 240SX to run reliably and perform its best.

📥 Download KA24E and KA24DE Factory Service Manuals (FSM)

Need the official Nissan service manuals for more detailed specs, torque values, and diagrams? We’ve got you covered:

• 🔧 Download the 1989–1990 KA24E Factory Service Manual (FSM)
  Everything you need for your SOHC engine: torque specs, wiring diagrams, timing procedures, and more.
• 🔧 Download the 1991–1994 KA24DE Engine Service Manual
  Ideal for DOHC engine owners looking to deep-dive into camshaft timing, distributor install, and engine teardown steps.

These PDF downloads are the official Nissan FSMs — perfect companions for your timing chain install, distributor alignment, or full KA24 rebuild.