Assuming this is a 4.3L engine, standing in front with the hood open, looking at the distributor, #1 would be at the 5:30 position.
http://autorepair.about.com/library/firing_orders/bl-fo-7742.htm
The rotor inside the distributor should be pointing at the #1 spark plug.
The number one plug is the one on the drivers side front of the engine. Therefore the plug wire connected to that plug is number 1 and where it connects to the distributor is the number 1 position on the distributor. If you have removed all the plug wires then you will have to remove the spark plugs, turn the engine over until the number 1 cylinder is at top dead center (TDC) on the compressions stroke. Once it is at TDC then the rotor inside the distributor will be pointing to the number 1 position.
On the 305 engine the number one plug position is the first one on the right side while you are facing the engine.
The number #1 plug is the forward-most plug on the left (driver's) side. Trace that wire back to the cap and you've got your answer.
1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2 clockwise
the one inline with the coil in front to the left
It is in the very back of the engine. Just follow a plug wire from the spark plug to the distributor cap. It is hard to see. All the plug wires start at the distributor and then hook to each plug.
For a 1985 Chevy S10 with a 2.8L engine the firing order is: 1-2-3-4-5-6 The Distributor rotation is clockwise.
The number 1 cylinder is located at the front left of the engine block while FACING the engine. Follow the spark plug wire to the distributor a POW there it is.
whats the motor.....but regardless if you follow the plug wires they lead to the distributor cap. v6 has 6 plug wires.....one to each plug and all of the on the distributor cap.......v8 has 8 plugs with their wires leading from each plug to the distributor cap
If you look at the distributor of the car, sometimes they are marked with the cylinder number on the cap. Find number 1 and follow the spark plug cable to the spark plug. That will be No. 1 cylinder.