Practice.

 

Or go by #6 being on the exhaust stroke. :}

 

Just another option to the 'finger' method.....Wouldn't a compression gauge work in place of your finger especially when your trying to do this alone ?

 

I've never heard of anyone having trouble with this in 35 years.

 

A compression gauge would work. I use just the hose adapter, no gauge.

As lawson says, check 6 for compression stroke then roll one more turn.

You can unbolt the compressor (don't disconnect the ac lines) and move it aside.

You can take the VC off and watch the rockers.

You can take the other 5 plugs out (leave #1 in). You should be able to feel the resistance to rotation due to the compression.

 

Just curious....Why with-out the gauge? wouldn't the pressure rise indicate on the gauge on compression stroke? sure would be easier than taking off the valve cover, or the remaining 5 plugs...Just think the finger method would be awkward when trying to position your hand behind the A/C compressor, then bumping the starter??? Not sure what I'm missing....

 

My comp gauge has different "adapters" and air hose like couplers. I can put my finger over the coupler. The adapter reaches over the ac compressor. I turn the crank with a breaker bar. The others listed are just other ways to determine compression stroke.