You can still use the pointers to align them, but obviously that way you will need to use the cables (or wire them) to fix them in position.
Typically, the 87, 88, and 89 barrels I had here that I could've cross-checked, all went to a new home on Saturday! But I am pretty certain they all had the holes in the backplates.
Edit: I may have found a photo of 1989 backplates with no holes!
Edit 2: To throw yet another spanner in your works... I'm sure the '88 should have alignment holes, and fear you may have mix-n-match parts there. Each model is different, and as a consequence you need to be very careful with setup, as using the incorrect parts can cause the valves to reach the end of their travel before the PGM sends the signal to cut the servo motor. This can, and almost certainly will burn out the servo motor, RC controller [circuit], or both!
If it were me, I would look for a set of 1988 backplates and pulleys, just to be sure.
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Andy.
NSR-WORLD.COM
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