MikeE,
I did not try to fire the engine yet. I got the distributor set on TDC using a vacuum gauge adapted to a compression gauge hose in #1 cylinder spark plug hole. Moved the crankshaft until I got compression on # 1 cylinder and continued to move the crankshaft clockwise, about 1/3 turn until the pointer on the bell housing lined up with the "BB" on the flywheel. Primed the oil pump. Stabbed the distributor in with the cap spring clips parallel to the push rod cover, and lined the rotor button up so that #1 spark plug wire on the rotor cap is in the 6 o'clock position. Made sure the distributor seated firmly so the oil pump drive was engaged. Tightened the distributor clamp at the slotted screw in from of the distributor. Attached all the plug wires in the proper firing order. 1,5,3,6,2,4. I've been told this should get it started so the proper timing can be set with a timing light. Will try to fire it in the next few days. My '49 has been converted to a 12V system with a 1 wire alternator.
Hope this helps.
Tim
