440 Won't start syndrome

When you set up the distributor, do NOT put the engine at TDC. Put the timing marks --which we hope you checked-- where it is that you want initial timing.

Then either install the dist. if it is not, or move it so that the points just opened from retard to advance, OR move the dist (on breakerless) so that the star wheel is centered in the pickup coil.

This will cause it to fire close to where you want initial time

Does NOT matter where no1 is. This can happen if the intermediate shaft (oil pump drive) is not installed by the book. Simply plug the no1 wire in wherever the rotor points.