Top Dead Center Locater Piston Stop Tool

A piston stop is one of those simple tools that does one job and does it well. I use it to find true top dead center instead of assuming the timing mark on the balancer is correct. If you're setting up a distributor, timing tape, or ignition timing, you need an accurate starting point. This is an inexpensive tool that takes the guesswork out of it.

Simple, inexpensive, and accurate. There’s really nothing to go wrong with it, and it gives you a repeatable way to find true top dead center without relying on the existing timing marks.

Always turn the engine over by hand when the piston stop is installed and bring the piston against the stop gently. Never use the starter. Also make sure the stop is adjusted far enough into the cylinder to contact the piston safely in both directions.