So I was wondering might sound like a dumb question so I just got my head redone and my Toyota threw a chain I was wondering does the 1st piston have to be all the way up when you put the head on and how can you tell if your on the right stroke on your block since the head is off the motor I’m working on a 1990 Toyota pickup 22re

 

The block doesn’t dictate the stroke-the cam does. So yes, put your #1 piston at the top and that will be tdc (top-dead-center), line up the timing chain marks and you’ll be good. Not a dumb question btw, always best to ask.

 

Short answer yes,

 

Throwing a chain in my opinion adds the task of checking for any valve damage to piston heads.. things don't stop rotating as soon as the chain pops.. food for thought. (Interference engine). Even tho some ppl swear they are not, they are.. that's why there are valve reliefs on the piston heads. Tbh, timing chain job require the head come anyway