Got it started.........but

[iddie makel]

Hello everyone,
This is a follow up to my earlier "rebuilt engine start up pros & cons".
I blundered in to getting my '55 264 started by disconnecting the vacuum line from the advance mechanism and turning the distributor to different positions until it started.I am shocked that it actually ran.I shut it down as soon as the oil pressure needle started to move.
Does this mean that I have the distributor in wrong,and if so ,is there anything I can do other than pulling the distributor back out?When you guys find some time,would you give me your thoughts? Thanks in advance to everyone.

iddie AKA neandertal

[theoldguy]

If you want it right, you might just as well pull the distributor. The next move is to pull number one spark plug. Then turn the engine over with your thumb on the hole. When it blows you thumb off, then line up the timing mark and drop the distributor back in with the rotor pointing at the wire for number one. If you have the cap wired properly, everything should look right. The books show where the number one is in the cap, so you should be fine.

PS remember that it should run at 2500 RPM for the first few minutes or you risk wiping out the cam

[iddie makel]

Hello Joe T,
Do I turn the engine over by bumping it with engine power,or do I use a socket and power bar.Also when you say timing mark I am assuming you mean the one on the front of the engine.Thanks for responding and bearing with me.
Tankman