GMC Repair: Timing / Service Engine Light, coat hanger wire, manifold gaskets

Question
I replaced the Intake Manifold gaskets after forming a bad leak,  since I replaced the gaskets I have been having trouble with the timing I replaced the Distributor in what was I thought was TOP DEAD CENTER but now i am having 2 codes come up a EGR vavle and a misfire code 1345 and 1406, now it will only start if it has been running for a while otherwise it takes 5 to 6 cranks to get it going. I am having to do everything myself due to just getting off of active duty from Iraq. Any help you can give would be greatly appreciated. By the way the vehicle is a 1996 GMC Suburban with a 5.7 L V8. If there is any more info you need please feel free to ask

Answer
First the EGR code may be a failed EGR or an unplugged EGR.

You are correct in thinking that you have a timing issue. The best place to start is to take the #1 plug out of the engine. Then stuff a rag into the hole, and bump the motor over until it pops out. When this happens you will be very near top dead center of the compression stroke on cyl#1. Next if you have a timing mark on the harmonic balancer line it up turning clockwise and you will be at top dead center. If you do not have a timing mark then you will need to get a compression guage. Install the guage and after the pop, rotate the engine by hand while watching the guage. When the compression stops building you are pretty much there. I have also put a coat hanger wire into the cylinder to feel when the piston starts to go back down, you may want to do this also. Once this has been accomplished then restab the distributor with the rotor pointing at cylinder #1 and you are as good as it gets without a scan tool. THe distributor cap should also be perpedicular to the motor.

If you need any more assistance, let me know.