Nissan Repair: 1986 720 nissan z24, nissan z24, haynes manual

Question
sir,
i have 1986 720 nissan p/u with 2.4 liter z24 engine 240k miles. It got to rattleing and we put new timing chain in it. We have crank at 0 degrees tdc and both valves closed on the front cylinder, which the Haynes manual says is number 1. And set the distributor on #1 on the intake plug wire. Pulled #1 spark plug and turned motor and its firing good. Put starting fluid in carb and it doesn't run. While I was gone a friend removed the oil pump shaft and changed its position. I talked to a mechanic at a local shop and he says those distributors in the z24 engines are really a pain. He had to remove the oil pump shaft about 10  times on the last one he did. My question is... Whats the secret? What do I  need to do to get this truck running again? Its been in the family since it was new.
Thanks for your help,
Sincerly,
Larry

Answer
Larry,

Static timing needs to be set first.  Remove number one sparkplug and crank the engine over until air starts to come out.  When it does stop bumping the engine over.  Now, look at number one on the timing marks.  Once you have the crank on zero remove the cap and make sure the rotor is on number one and you should be fine.  If not, the timing is off and the cover will have to be removed to reset the chain.