Compression Stroke - How Do You Find It?

Hi Everyone,

I am getting ready to start my '68 for the first time in 6 years. I've swapped th I6 for a 302 and had to install a new distributor without and reference marks. I installed it with both valves on the #1 cylinder closed, timing pointer at TDC, piston at the top of the stroke, and the rotor pointing to the #1 spark plug.

I am trying to determine if I have done this correctly. Aren't there are two points when the the cylinder is at the top of the stroke and both valves closed--one on the compression and one on the exhaust stroke? How can I determine if I have this set on the correct stroke?

I could just give it a shot but would rather elminate as many variables as possible if (er... when...) it does not start.

Interesting idea, I'll have to try that. I also thought that I might be able to watch for when the intake valve opens/closes (valve cover off), and the the next TDC would be the compression stroke. Would this work? Oh, um, basic question, the intake valve is the one closest to the front of the engine?