I need to check my distributor, it was removed by a relative and I'm not sure if it was reinstalled properly. My engine backfires. Can I set the engine at TDC by using the line on the crank pulley and then removing the number 1 plug and making sure the piston is at TDC and that the rotor is pointed towards the number 4 plug? All suggestions are apprieciated.

Lawrence

Your process sounds right. ALL timing marks must line up, not just the crank. Pull the plugs and turn it over by hand (clockwise) till the crank pulley lines up with the mark on the belt cover. Also make sure the cam wheels are lined up with the pointers. The crank rotates 2 times for every 1 cam rotation, so you may need to turn it over again to get all the marks lined up.

2nd would be to set the points gap and dwell correctly and make sure the condensers are good.

under what conditions does the engine backfire? Acceleration, decel? Does it backfire out the carb or exhaust?

the backfiring is comming more from the exhaust. When setting the carburator , trying to resolve the issue, there was problems with the carb choking. At Idle when the car has warmed and even cold, when you rev the engine the backfiring occur's when you let off the pedal.

that usually indicates a rich mixture and if your choke is not opening or the carb has problems it will backfire on decel.