I just wanted to update everyone on the progress so far. We finally broke down and had the Jeep towed to a shop. Upon further inspection the mechanic there determined that there was no compression and that the rods were bent. I am waiting to get a more detailed explanation. As far as the timing mark mystery the mechanic explained that it was moved because the new timing mark plate was in a different location than the stock configuration. Go figure.

I wish I knew more about this stuff.

Dan