new engine won't start

[papasan55]

Just installed a new 1600 in my 79 bug. When installing the timing gear, it wouldn't go straight up and down like the book showed. It is like 6 or 8 degrees off to the right on top.
Will the engine run like this?
I put the crank on TDC, #1 is at the top,nturned the timing gear like it shows in bentley, installed the distributor to #1.
Also put on new manifold and progressive carb, the manual pump is pumping gas OK.
Any help would be appreciated.
thanks, Jerry

[ach60]

Sounds ok, What distributor are you running. If it is a 009 get a static
timing light, and set the timing to about 7 degrees before top dead center.
This will do 2 things, one your timing will be close, and you will know for
sure that you are getting power to the coil at the correct time.
Also make sure you have the firing order correct, 1432 clockwise with 1
being the notch on the housing. Get a buddy to help.
Make sure you are getting fuel down the carb when you pump the gas .
Make sure you getting spark out of the coil. You can then turn the dist a
lttle back and forth and get it to start. Then once it's running you can time it for real. Good luck

[papasan55]

Thanks for the quick reply, I'll try all your recomendations. I'm sure I've screwed up somewhere. I'll let you know how it comes out. Can't work on it today, other commitments. But will get on it Friday.
Thanks again for sharing your knowledge.
Papasan66