Uh, I'm not going to recommend any "cutting". Your signature says a "53 CJ3A". As I tried to read up on "timing mark locations", it seems that 52-53 is right when Willys changed blocks to "larger flange" and to "larger starters". There was also indication that the front pulley was to be marked then. Was yours? Otherwise, the only two suggestions I have are 1) pull the starter to "see" in the bigger hole if you can find the timing marks at all? If so, Mark them in white, or I use a "metallic silver" Scripto pen for mine, and slowly rotate the engine to "peep hole" to see it. With plugs out, engine should turn easy by hand. or... 2) Pull valve cover, and watch #2 valves as engine is turned by hand, for both tappets to be clear TDC for #2. That means Next is the #1 cylinder, firing order 1342, so you know it will be next TDC when those two #1 valve tappets are loose .016 clearance cold. That is #1 TDC. I would then check your "peep hole", and if still "nothing", mark the timing cover and pulley relationship at TDC for reference. Then check your rotor location on distributor, and work from there. I hope that helps. Good Luck!