Do you have a simple compression gauge? Try to track one down.... I would remove all the plugs. Install the compression gauge on the #1 plug hole..... and use the big 2' ratchet on the balancer bolt and spin the engine around until you see the timing marks lining up with the pointer and the compression gauge showing compression....
If you dont have the gauge you can have a friend use a finger in the plug hole to feel for compression....the set the timing about 10 before TDC and drop in the distributor pointing at the #1 lug...then the engine should fire over no problem.