> i still say cam timing's off. it's easy to set the cam and the crank so
> they align, but have the belt one tooth out simply by having the belt
> slack. you need to assemble, tension, then re-check the mechanical
> timing /afterwards/. carefully rotate the motor three times, then
> slowly bring the crank timing point up to tdc keeping the belt under
> tension. only then can you be 100% certain that cam timing is correct.
>
> and to emphasize, ignition timing is a different matter entirely to cam
> timing - ignition can look perfect with the cam 19 degrees out. the
> gotcha check for this is the position of the distributor - it should be
> roughly in the middle of the rotation slots. if the cam is out, it'll
> be towards one end.
>
> finally, use the right book - some are crap. helminc.com is the source
> for factory honda service manuals - easily the best investment you'll
> ever make in your honda if you do your own maintenance.- Hide quoted text -
>
> - Show quoted text -

followed step by step from the honda service manual, well then
tomorrow I'll rotate the crank pulley to TDC, take the valve cover off
and check the marks on the camgear just to triple check the mechanical
timing.

Any ideas what it might be if it's not the timing? vacuum leak?