Hi,

Just wondering what would happen if the spark plug wires weren't connected to the proper distributor cap location?

 

Depending how many were in the wrong position it may run very poorly or not run at all..It will also likely backfire flames up out of the carb or out of the exhaust while cranking it over..

 

O.k. I think I may have some wires wrong. Should the number 6 be on the cap closer to the firewall and number 1 closer to the radiator on an inline 6?

 

Sorry I can't answer your question but I can tell you how to find out..Remove the spark plug from the number one cylinder and have someone bump over the engine with your finger over the spark plug hole..You will feel the compression push your finger off of the hole when the piston is coming up on compression stroke..Next line up the timing marks on the balancer and timing pointer..When you are sure you have that right remove the distributor cap and see where the rotor is pointing to?That is number one..Then in the order of the firing order place the wires on the cap in the direction that the rotor turns(normally counterclockwise at least on V8s)

 

which engine is it exactly?

the firing order on a 1966 200ci for example is:
1 - 5 - 3 - 6 - 2 - 4 (clockwise)
so that next to #1 cylinder clockwise you should have the wire for #5
so #6 should be exactly opposite of #1

but let us know what engine we're talking about. i need to look it up as I don't know much about ford 6 cylinders ...
and does it run at all???
(not at all or ****ty)?