K100 8V rebuild – timing after complete disassembly

[Aym]

Hi everyone,
I’m 20 years old from Canada and currently rebuilding the engine from my 1985 BMW K100 8V as part of a full café racer build.
This is my first time going this deep into an engine, and I made a mistake during disassembly. I removed the timing chain, camshafts and related components without marking their original positions.
The engine is now pretty much completely disassembled.
My question is: since I didn’t make any marks before taking everything apart, can I still correctly set the engine timing from scratch using the factory timing marks?
From what I understand, I need to put the crankshaft/pistons in the correct position, correctly position both camshafts, and then reinstall the timing chain. But I want to make sure I follow the correct procedure and don’t risk piston-to-valve contact.
I have the BMW repair manual, but I haven’t been able to find a clear step-by-step procedure for setting the timing when the engine has already been completely disassembled.
If anyone has done this on a K100 8V, I’d really appreciate some guidance. Pictures of the factory timing marks, manual pages, or a step-by-step explanation would be extremely helpful.
Thanks!

[Laitch]

Don't be distressed. In this case, provision has been made to align these components without marks having been made by the disassembler before taking the engine apart.

What I have found helpful is using different manuals for reference while I'm working. When I get stalled understanding one manual, I pore through the others looking for clarity. In your case, the Clymer manual has a clear answer to your question. The Haynes manual is also on the workbench.




Installing the cylinder head and camshaft must be done carefully and patiently. Once installed with the cams positioned correctly, take a break because installing the timing chain and aligning the cam sprockets, gate rotor, and Hall sensor will need your undivided attention.