First time working on a Toyota. I classified my self as a weekend mechanic with just enough knowledge to be dangerous. I did an engine engine swap on a Toyota 3vze. Replaced the long block and transferred everything over. Replaced the timing belt and lined up the timing marks. Engine will not start. Took it apart to confirm timing marks snd they are still aligned. Still no start. Checked for sparks at no. 1 and have sparks. Engine cranks over and pops. What am I doing wrong and how do I check for fuel pressure?

Timing marks

 

Wow. It could be hundreds of things. I'd start by confirming that your ignition timing is correct. Meaning, about 10°BTDC on the COMPRESSION stroke.

To measure fuel pressure, just refer to the Factory Service Manual you used during the engine swap. On the 3VZE, the best way is to replace the FPR banjo bolt with a schraeder valve, and use a fuel pressure gauge with that connector.

 

I found out the hard way that the 22r's are very finicky on distributor timing. One tooth off and it will not crank. Toyota doesn't leave a lot of timing adjustment on the distributor to be a single tooth off. I'm with scope that it's probably in the distributor timing. Bump it over to confirm #1 TDC and then see where your rotor points. I had to remove mine several times and move it one tooth at a time until I finally found nirvana...😄

 

"Cranks over and pops.."

I'd start with checking my firing order and the sparkplug wires go where they should.

Then check base ignition timing.

And finally verify my cam timing, timing belt placement.

You seem to have started with the more labor intensive bit first, unless you left out checking those other bits.. Don't leave anything like THAT out, hell even "I had to use the restroom in the middle of routing sparkplug wires" can be relevant clues as to what may have happened.

 

[They'll still "crank"; I assume you mean something like "fire."]

One tooth is just about 28°. I don't know every engine made, but I doubt very many of them will fire with the ignition timing that far off. Call it "finicky" if you will.

 

Turbine engines don't care!

That slotted retention of the distributor is more of a feature than a design flaw. Some engines use a retention ring where you can spin the distributor a complete 360°, again design feature.

Much like ankle vs knee-high socks, they both have thier uses.