I'm try to figure out why the '86 2.8 v6 I just bought runs like sh*t, so I'm starting with the basics and not taking anything for granted.

I hand-crank the engine so that #1 cylinder is at TDC of the compression stroke. If I then look at the distributor rotor and assume it's pointing at #1, then the remaining firing order is correct.

Problem is, this doesn't match the (1) stamped inside the distributor cap nor the illustration in the Chilton book. The stamping in the dist cap and the chilton book imply that the rotor should be pointed roughly at the right front corner of the engine compartment; mine is pointed towards the right rear corner.

But does this really matter ? Is there anything in the engine controls that really cares ? Or can I just take wherever it lands at TDC of the #1 piston, assume that to be the #1 pin on the distributor, and go from there ?

I was also wondering if the timing chain may have jumped timing. But I'm getting good compression - 145 to 150 on all 6 - so am I correct in assuming that good compression rules out a timing chain issue ?