I’m having trouble turning the engine over, just did a head gasket and timing chain, I’m not to sure if my timing of way off because I lost the position it was in originally, maybe that’s a reason why it won’t turn over? If so what is a good basis to set it at so I can get it running to time properly

 

Distributor, recheckt positon at intake TDC.

 

pull the valve cover there is a dowel pin on the cam it should be at the top at twelve o'clock. Crank should be at TDC, zero on the timing marks (or balance pulley key way at twelve o'clock)

 

Usually, "turn over" means: Turn. Over. Not running, not firing or coughing. Just turning over (powered by the starter).

Is that what you mean? Or is it turning over, but not firing? Is it firing, but not catching? Is it catching, but not running?

If it won't turn over, valve timing is not the issue.

 

Hmmm. True, op needs to clarify.

OP. Install the starter!

 

He has another active thread... With a noise/clacking.. And a valve spring that's compressed...

 

Ah, yes! https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f116.../#post52411052 He really did mean turn over -- by hand!