Initial fire-up

This may sound like a stupid question but I'm going to ask anyways. What is the best way to install the distributor such that it has the most immediate fire-up. I am 5 for 5 (success) for breaking in flat tappets. I want to make it 6. I have a small cam( 216 @.50/ 515 lift) that I am breaking in on a 402. In the past, I would spin the motor over quite a bit before it would fire up. Is there a way to find the number one cylinder on the cap and estimate the timing on that? in other words, how much and which way should I rotate the distributor (advance/retard)? thanks for any help.

One of the true engine experts will have some tips for you, I'm sure. I just wanted to suggest you buy a preluber and lube the engine before you try to start it. You may have already done that, but just thought it worth mentioning.

Don

Thanks for the information guys. Denny, i'll give that a try. That seems like a great idea. Do you think that instead of a screwdriver I could use a test light? thanks again.

Great information, I will print this out as probably a lot of other guys will for reference. My 67 Nova hasn't been started for almost ten years; it's been inside so I don't think it would have moisture. I wanted some good info on priming the engine first and thank you; you have done an excellent job of explaining it.

Richard

Great info Denny ! Hope to finally fire up mine on Sat. and had not thought about priming the carb. You saved me some possible troubles. Now what kind of break-in is needed for a solid roller? Also kind of guages (o.p.,temp.,f.p.) mech. or elec. work best?

Cool, I thought I was the only one whom had figured out that trick.

Usually gets it within a couple degrees.

To get #1 at TDC firing position, line up the timing marks when the cylinder directly across the dist. cap is at split overlap, that is, the exhaust is just closing and the intake just opening. Saves all that monkeying around down the plug hole.