getting close to firing

Never just grab the distributor and give it a twist. The correct way to set timing on any new start up is to set the crank where you want TOTAL timing to be set. For start up I usually add 3-5 degrees MORE total. On my last start up, I set the crank at 40* BTDC. Then you install the distributor and make the rotor point to #1 on the cap with ALL the advance take up (hold th body and turn the rotor as far clockwise as it will go) and snug it down. You will now be within a degree or two of what you want and no guess work.

Fill the float bowls with fuel before you start it. The crank should turn twice and it better be running. If not stop and figure out what you have wrong.