Tri-z Timing Marks

[Just-Tri-It]

I was having my top end redone on my Z and decided to replace the crank seals as a precaution while I waiting for cylinder work to be done.
Question. After I replaced the seal on the stator side, I noticed there are 3 marks at the top of the stator and 3 on the flywheel that are supposed to line up with the line on the case. Can I put these back on and tightened them down without the top end being on and make it right? Or basically, how can I be sure I have the stator on in the right postion? And since the flywheel has a key, I don't think I can get that one wrong.
Want to be sure it is timed right or at-least on the marks right.
Is there a thread on this subject?
Thanks

[El Camexican]

I went and looked an the manual today after my PM. I had forgotten about the mark on the cases. It seems you line the center mark on the plate with the line on the case and then if all is well the line on the flywheel lines up with the other two when you are at TDC.

Doing this will get you as close to perfect as they were built at the factory, but if you want to now for certain, or plan to tune it later you will need to have your top end on.

Long story short, if this is a stock rebuild then yes you can set the timing without the cylinder mounted and like I mentioned before, you can adjust the timing later by simply removing the cover.

[Just-Tri-It]

I set the plate to the middle mark. It was set to just past the third mark by previous owner, but I think that was prolly to much. We'll see. I also pressure tested the bottom end and it held @ 7 lbs for 5 minutes. So I think the seals are fine now.
Thanks

[YTZ drew]

Are there any witness marks on the stator plate left from where the screws were tightened down previously? I usually try to put the stator back where it was, if the bike was a known runner.

[Just-Tri-It]

Are there any witness marks on the stator plate left from where the screws were tightened down previously? I usually try to put the stator back where it was, if the bike was a known runner.

Yes. It was previously set just past the 3rd mark. And i wonder if that contributed to the piston failure? Not sure. To be safe I placed it at the middle, or 2nd mark. Not sure what the factory setting would be but tried to place it as close as I could to TDC without the top end on it. Then adjust when I finish with the top end. I don't want it running hot because it was advanced too much.