so this is going to sound like I'm an idiot but I'm really just new to all of this.
when i went to change the valve cover gaskets i took the distributor out and did not properly put it back it took me a while to realize this but when i did and set the car to TDC it would start and then rapidly decline in RPM and die however two teeth after TDC i can get the car to start if the distributor is turned all the way to the left but if i don't center it shortly after starting it, it dies it is also burning rich at first. any idea where i need to go with this?

 

Have you tried 1 tooth , as it sounds like it would do it you need it turned back opposite from the direction you turned the base to get it running , check with a timing lite to see where it is will help

 

I did try one tooth but with multiple distributor positions it was no different, and it’s difficult to get the light on it to test

 

ok update, tooth one only works if the car is up to temp I've run it a few times today so ill wait until late tomorrow afternoon to try starting it in this position, thanks for the reply

 

XenonZcar.com Z31 1984-1989 300zx Reference has your factory service manual. Maybe could help you out there

 

Yeah the timing marks are hard if not impos. I think I set it to TDC off and made my own paint marks on down ,that would help

 

The FSM is The Bible....have a hard copy here..(cost in 1997 = $60.00)....a mechanic told me people had to go to school to learn how to use it properly.

Doesn't matter; U CAN DO THIS!!