i have recently re built my chev 350 motor and i cant seem to get the timing right for the engine to start, i have set the #1 piston to TDC and the distributor to the #1 fireing spot and it shot a 3ft flame out the carb. to my knowledge this is NOT right, little is known about the internal components (crank shaft, cam, lifters, etc.) could the cam be off some? or is it another problem i have over looked? please render any help possable.

thank you, MK