Need BTDC on Ford 5900 Minimec ro replace injector pump.

[8nTN]

Hello, Found small needle bearings when changing oil in my 89 Ford 5900 injector pump inline Minimec CAV p5438. Engine was running fine. Studying removing it myself and send it out for rebuild. Can't find a 5900 repair manual but do have the 5600/5610/6600 IT service manual. My internet research indicates Ford 6600 used the same pump and 256 engine as my 5900. Book says 6600 uses 23 degrees BTDC. Can anyone confirm 5900 is the same? And any tips on setting the timing other than what the manuals say? Thanks.

 

[Destroked 450]

Early engines were set at 17 degrees and later at 23 degrees
Remove the access cover and turn the engine until the marks on the pump flange line up, then look thru the time hole to see what degree marks on the flywheel are lined up with the timing mark

 

[8nTN]

I set the flywheel on 23 degrees and the pump lines up with the flange mark so that should confirm 23 degrees. Anybody know if it is safe to rebuild a pump if you find needle bearings in the pump oil? The pump oil is separate from the engine oil.

 

[Bern]

I set the flywheel on 23 degrees and the pump lines up with the flange mark so that should confirm 23 degrees. Anybody know if it is safe to rebuild a pump if you find needle bearings in the pump oil? The pump oil is separate from the engine oil.

Of course it needs to be rebuilt - sounds like the governor thrust bearing went out. I wouldn't run it any further until it is repaired.