1987 ranger 2.9l stock distributor

[Ranger/broncoyears]

i removed my old engine and a purchase a new long block and been removing all the acessories and i was putting the distributor in today in the new engine and setting the harmonic balancer at 10 degrees btc and set piston at #1 i read my manual several times trying to under stand the slator and line marks on distributor and what they mean anybody no how to set?

 

[8sechonda]

i always set the rotor in the distibutor to the number one plug wire.. dunno if this is what u needing to know lol

 

[Ranger/broncoyears]

I know how set to #1 plug but the question is what are the marks on stock distributor there are several marks ford made these marks

 

[IMenriched]

I know how set to #1 plug but the question is what are the marks on stock distributor there are several marks ford made these marks

Wouldn't get too worried about the lines on the distributor...the Harmonic balancer is the key one.

presuming everything is correct as described earlier.
place the rotor on the distrib....note where it is pointing...then set the cap on...note which plug wire post it (the rotor inside would be pointing towards)...make that your #1 spot and go according to the firing order and correct rotation. & you'll have it whipped.

just make sure the spout plug is removed and leave the distributor clamp is snug for the final timing adjustment