Getting ready to start engine up although I need to ask 1 question.

Installed new MSD ignition, new coil, and new MSD distributer. I'm at TDC on compression stroke.

I know the firing order and understand that it turns Counter Clockwise.

I have the distributer rotor pointing towards cylinder #1 now.

So this is my question: Do I need to turn the rotor 180 degrees? Only reason I'm asking this is the fact about 10 years ago I was 180 out and engine would not start so I've been through this before.

Thanks!

Rotor only goes on shaft 1 way.  If your correct on set up, (pointing at O) it should start.  Leave your distributor hold down snug enough to still be able to turn it, (adjust timing) but snug enough to hold in place.  If it does not start,  Mark exactly 180 on side of distributor lip.   Remove hold down and Pull the distributor straight up about an inch NOT all the way out.  Make a note where rotor stops.  (piece of tape if needed to mark) Will continue to turn because of gear.  Turn 180 at that point and it should drop right back in, with oil pump lined right back up.  We always like pic's.  

Thanks Steve! Got it try rolling engine over now with distributor Rotor pointing at cylinder #1. If engine doesn't start and sounds bad pull distributor out and move the shaft (Rotor) 180 pointing towards firewall then it should start up. Yeah the distributor only sits in 2 positions so play with it until it ROARS! I'll be all over it tomorrow FORDing dark here already sucks. Went through this about 10 years ago now I'm 60 and Brain Housing Unit has lost some mojo. Cheers Steve