How to set timing when timing tab is hidden by waterpump

[1970chevyC10dude]

Went to set the timing on my chevy 350 and the timing tab is hidden under the waterpump does anyone know how to set the timing?
Thank you

[custom10nut]

Maybe use a Mechanic's mirror? Or a Fiber Optic camera? I don't know, I've never had a SBC that the water pump hides the timing tab. Is it a stock type water pump and timing chain cover?

[towbar]

not sure if this is what your describing or not, but have had a few 80's era sbc's that have the round timing tab, usually point the timing light straight down between the water pump and timing cover to set timing......but you have to literally crawl up on the radiator cradle/engine while its running in a pick-up...so it's a bit sketchy.

[custom10nut]

Now that you mention it, I have seen the timing tab on the top of the timing cover like Towbar says, but they were on newer engines

[Overdriven]

If you can see the balancer at all you can relocate the timing mark on it. Then fabricate or relocate the pointer. As long as you keep the original mark on zero with the original pointer you can zero out the new pointer and mark. Doesn't hurt to make sure the original pointer is correct though.

[Wrenchbender Ret]

I used to do like Towbar says. Hang over the radiator. That was used on the models with long water pumps. If you have the original short pump ther is not enough space to see down between it. You will need to get a timing tab for the side & remark the damper. I have some tabs for 6 in. dampers if you want one.