So I started to put the motor together and got most of it done with the valves set and everything a while ago. Took the heads off because I decided to get them ported, and now I have them back and put back on. The cover, water pump, etc, is still on and I really don't want to take it all off to look at the timing gears to see where tdc is, because I have to set valve lash again. Like the title says..i'm lazy
So, How can I see where number #1 tdc is with out looking at that. What lifters will be higher than others to open the valves, because that will probably be the best way right? I know at this point I am either at #1 or 6 TDC

 

Obviously #1 piston will be up. Both lifters for #1 will be down. If your at the wrong TDC both lifters will be slightly up.

 

but wouldn't the lifters for #6 be down too? my car isn't here so I can't run down and look at it.

 

At #1 TDC the lifters for #6 will both be up a little as they are in overlap between the exhaust and intake stroke.

 

and I guess it will be the other way around with #6 TDC?

 

i stick my finger over the spark plug hole, have someone bump it, you'll know when your on the compression stroke, it'll blow your finger out. then use a straw to find TDC

 

ps: if your not ready to use the starter it'll still work the same if you put a socket on the crank bolt and roll it by hand.

 

wow, went to look at them and #1 and 6 lifters were so close to being down. I guess I could turn the crank one more time and see which one I can feel air coming out of for the compression stroke. I know 1 or 6 is at tdc right now.