Ok first of all, I am getting ready to install the engine in the engine bay. However, it sits on a stand with everything torqued on including the headers. When I go to install this, is ok to place it in with everything intact on it? or should I take off the headers ?

Second!, When you install the distributor, How do you know what possition it needs to be in?

 

as for Q1:
i never tried to install engine together with headers, don't see that working.
had to removed headers then put in the engine, remove spark plugs, install headers, put spark plugs back

in my 64 there's a z-bar for the clutch that mounts to engine and chassis. I think you'll have a hard time remove/install that without removing the header. again, someting i never tried

As foir your distributor. If the distributor is already installed my first guess would be it's already timed.
You can do a quick check. Make sure the engine is at TDC (marking on harmonic balancer. when that's the case, the rotor should point to #1 or the exact opposite. if that;s the case the chances it's correct are 50:50 :-)

Kalli

 

OK... I will remove the headers and jack it up in place!

 

Usually the drivers side header has to go in from underneath so you might as well pull them. Pull the spark plugs too, so you dont have the engine swing and snap one off.

 

I'd remove the headers and put them in the engine bay in their approximate locations, then drop the engine and wrestle them into place.

For the distributor, do what kalli said except also place a finger over the number 1 spark plug hole. When number 1 is approaching TDC on the compression stroke, air will force past your finger. Then run it to TDC and check that the rotor is pointing at the tower for the number 1 plug wire. Should be good enough to get you started then you can final time with the timing light. If it doesn't start right up, try twisting the distributor both ways, but only a very small amount, you should find the sweet spot easily.

 

LOL, take the breather cap off when you attempt to start the car if your not sure if the dizzy is firing at 1 or the 180degree opposite.... ask me why...

 

you can be lucky that you have push-on breater caps. otherwise the dipstcik would have killed ya

 

Sweet.