Alright I'm lost now. I retimed it and still does not start. How do you tell when cylinder#1 is at TDC with the valve covers off?
You'll need help from buddy.....remove #1 plug turn engine over by hand, well actually, use socket on the nut of Harmonic balancer, turn it the direction it would normally run.....as one turns the engine the other sticks a finger in the open plug hole....as engine turns ,soon you'll feel pressure increase on your finger, at that point both Intake and exhaust valves are closed. Now look at your harmonic balancer, as it rolls round & pressure increases the timing marks come towards the top, more towards the passengers side.
some put a small long screwdriver in the #1 plug hole or stiff wire, just make sure plenty it sticking out to hold onto. you can feel when the piston is coming up and keep your hand close to the plug hole to feel the compression.
the compression will start after the intake valve opens and shuts...just after it shuts, piston starts to come up...if the exhaust valve opens...gone too far.
one can do this with the starter....but is easier to catch rolling over by hand.
If you use the starter unplug the relay for the fuel, so it won't start on you.