I have a 2005 4runner 4.7 v8. I have noticed that the timing marks are way off and just want to confirm on how to put them TDC. From the crank pull I would spin it clockwise or counter?

Crank pulley turns clockwise and you turn it that direction during timing belt replacement.

Are you wanting to "reset" the timing marks just because they are "off" or is there a problem with your timing? I have no experience with the 4.7 but on my 3.4 Taco & my 1500cc Valkyrie the timing marks on the belt were only "on" when the belt is first installed. As soon as the engine is rotated they begin to move away from being where they were set on install. At some point I suppose they return to the original position but don't know that for sure.

Grumpy02, your assumptions are correct. I recently did the timing belt job on my v8 4Runner. If Mattmaine1991 is just inspecting the timing belt, it will only line up when installing the belt. Once the engine is cranked, it will be tough to the get all the markers on the belt lined up.

That said, the top cam gears should have a mark on the house and a small divit on the gear. You can see them in the picture below:



There is also some markings on the crankshaft gear as well. The engine will need to be set at TDC before removing the belt. The cam gears or crank should not be turned independently while the belt is off. Probably going into more detail than needed.

Long story short, Mattmaine1991, if your engine is running without issue, you are fine. The paint marks on the belt are only used at the time its installed.

To put it at TDC, you'll need to rotate the crankshaft pulley clockwise. This should align the marks properly and get everything in sync for your timing belt.

Probably need a little more clarification on what you are wanting to do.

If you are just curious as to why they aren't matching up, that is one question. The short version is: If it's running correctly, don't worry about it. If your engine has 'slipped' a tooth, you would know it.

If you are prepping to replace your timing belt, there are tons of writeups here as well as on Youtube that take it step-by-step.

Finally, just to answer the question posed, Clockwise.