Jerry,
I guess you & I interpret the early parts of the thread differently. 1970f250 says he changed the top end gaskets, which he later stated to be head gaskets and intake gaskets. From that I assume that he didn't have any bent valves, or other major issues. When he attempted startup the engine backfired, and then ran bad once started. He found a cylinder dead. I assume that the bent valve happened because of the backfire, but I could be wrong. If so, then to what can we attribute the bent valve??

On the timing light, in my opinion 1970f250 shouldn't go any farther if he doesn't have a light, or unless he goes through the steps to ensure that he knows dead certain that he can get the engine to #1 TDC compression, and then index the distributor right. Even then a good timing light is mandatory, not optional IMO. Given the experience to date I can't see advising him to start jumping teeth on the distributor unless he knows dead certain where he's starting from. A guy with your experience brings along a big load of confidence playing by ear, but that an cost a guy money if he misses a step.

Maybe I need to stop "assuming" and let 1970f250 explain where he's at, and then ask any added questions that he has.