Timing Chain Issue

[elrodalonzo]

I am replacing the timing chain on a 08 2.2 Cobalt. I put the #1 cylinder in what I thought was the TDC position and removed all the sprockets, guides and chain. Now when I go to install the new parts, the first cam sprocket I put on is the intake sprocket and the exhaust mark comes in the place where the intake mark should be and the same thing with the exhaust sprocket. I'm guessing I was not on the compression stroke when I removed everything. My question is how to fix this, can I just turn the crank until the piston goes down and back up then turn the cams till everything is where it's supposed to be? Thanks for any help.

 

[YelloEye]

You want everything to line up like so:


To do so turn everything by hand. With the plugs out the crank should be easy to turn.

 

[elrodalonzo]

Thanks yelloeye. My guess is I'm not on the compression stroke with the crank. I'm going to find that today then turn the cams to the proper positions. I just wanted to make sure before assembling everything.

 

[YelloEye]

There isn't a compression stroke until everything is timed, lining up all the marks will set it up correctly.

Cylinders 1+4 and 2+3 are paired up such that they may as well share a connecting rod.

 

[elrodalonzo]

Got the picture now, thanks. Put her all back together and runs like a scalded dog. I was afraid of bent valves but alls good.

 

[YelloEye]

Score! Nice job!