What’s it mean when engine runs with cmp sensor 180 out

[b.rudy]

Hey guys, I haven’t posted much but I’ve been ghosting for a while. Just got my 4.6 stroker running and I’ve got a glowing header issue. I have done lengthy diagnosis of the issue and I am still having issues. However one thing I did notice is that irregardless of whether the crankshaft is at TDC compression or exhaust stroke when I install the cam position sensor timed with a toothpick the engine will run regardless..? I still need to tune it (using HP Tuners) but why would it run decently. Even if 180° out?
I have borrowed a friends snap on Solus scan tool and I’m going to try to do the CMP re-sync tonight.
However any thoughts? Will the PCM go into a batch fire
Mode or something - which might explain my glowing header issue.

[Cheromaniac]

Did you install a new harmonic balancer?
A glowing header indicates that you have at least one of two problems; a lean condition or overretarded ignition timing.

[Unclewolverine]

Or super rich and the fuel is still burning as it exits the cylinders. Rotaries are always run super rich to prevent detonation and they will glow the header red.

[b.rudy]

Ok so for others searching, here is what happened and why my header was glowing.
Basically everything was fine, ie. timing, tune was close enough(ie A/F ratio) and everything was mechanically sound. I spent countless hours diagnosing only to realize that the "Heatshield Products" "Header Armor" was the reason my header was glowing. Knowing how hot these XJ's run I was trying to combat the heat soak issues these jeeps have and in the process caused another issue. A cherry red header! I removed the expensive header heat shield and bam no more glowing header
oh well live and learn, I hope this may help someone some day from making the same mistake!