I bought an 88 Golf and it isn't running. I want to check the valve timing but I don't know how. How do I do this.

 

3 points on the trans there is a window hard to see but effective. remove timming belt cover check belt condition and tention pully on the top sprocket there is a marck on the back of it this lines up with the cilinder head (level) and the rotor on the distributer needs to point to the number 1 spark wire. If you can do this you may as well get a book and change the belt and tentioner they are not expencive but essential. A timming light would tell you eaiser rent or borrow one and follow instructions. you have a project car prepare to get dirty. also change the plugs when they get saturated with fule when turning over they dont work well.

 

It's really not that hard. Most people could do it maybe 20 minutes if your good. BTW you have PM