flyn55: When you set the timing mark at the pointer, pull the valve cover and make sure that both rocker arms are free om #1. If you have a valve compressed then you need to turn the engine one more complete revolution to get to top dead center. The cam turns 1/2 the crankshaft and the mark on the flywheel will line up at both T.D.C. and, when the exhaust valve is open. Just the nature of the beast. We have all done it and it is easy to fix. When you are certain that you have #1 at T.D.C. and on compression then it should start. It will run just fine with the valve cover off. If you are om level ground you will not have a big mess unless there is something wrong. If you have oil spray then something is wrong and you need to fix it any way. As a bonus, you can see that oil is at the rockers and if any push rods are bent. When it starts run at a fast idle for a while and keep an eye on the oil pressure. Let it warm up and then set the timing and final adjust the valves. If you still have trouble starting then look for spark, fuel, and compression, as always. Have fun and some luck won't hurt ya any ways.
