another timing issue/ backfire

ok so i know this has been posted alot but i hvae been trying the tricks posted on here and stil have not been getting anywere so i was hopeing there might be one more that could help me. i just took the motor out to replace the gastkets and replace one of the valves and the rockers. so pretty much i just tore it down to a shortblock no mesing with the oiling system or the cam timing and cam. anyways when i put it back in i have everything adjusted out such as the valves and i can not get it to start. i know i have the right firing order and i belive i set the timming correctly but it still is spitting fuel out of the top of the carb, and every once in a while catching fire. (amusing to see but probably not safe) anyways, i assumed this ment it was 180 out but it stil does it when i flip it around. i have run out of ideas so i was hoping you guys could help me. ( to make sure i am on the compression stroke i have taken the valve cover off and made sure the piston was moving up with both valves closed, is this and ok way?) anywas does anyone have any ideas?

the number one terminal on the distributor can be whichever one you want it to be right as long as the plug from the number one spark plug is running to it? is that correct? and ya i got the right cylinder. and i thought it might be the valves as well so i went through and adjusted them ina way i was told to which is hopefully ( i start with the numbre one cylinder and rotate it untill the intake valve is starting to close and then tighten the exhuast rocker untill zero movement plus 3/4 turn. and then continue switching to the intake valve and so on and so forth. and ps d. hearn thank you for all ur help i can always count on a responce from you