The number one position on a distributor typically refers to the cylinder closest to the front of the engine, which is usually designated as the first cylinder in the firing order. In most V-type engines, this is the cylinder on the driver's side in left-hand drive vehicles. On a distributor cap, the number one terminal is often marked, and the ignition timing is usually set with this cylinder at the top of its compression stroke. Always consult the vehicle's service manual for specific details related to a particular engine.
Standard is that it is pointing at the number one position on the distributor cap.
6:oo position on cap
no1 on the distributor always points towards the no one cylinder
The marked # 1 position on the distributor cap faces to the FRONT / CENTER
On the 305 engine the number one plug position is the first one on the right side while you are facing the engine.
The marked # 1 position on the distributor cap faces towards the firewall
To find the number one firing position on a 454 distributor, first ensure the engine is at top dead center (TDC) on the compression stroke for the number one cylinder. You can do this by removing the spark plug for the number one cylinder and rotating the engine until you feel air pressure or see the piston reach its highest point. Once at TDC, the rotor of the distributor should be pointing directly at the terminal for the number one cylinder on the distributor cap. This indicates the position for firing.
The marked # 1 position on the distributor cap faces AWAY from the engine
Align the rotor with the number one position on the distributor cap, then with the engine at TDC insert the distributor. There may be a mark on the outside of the distributor to help.
Standing in front looking at the distributor cap, number one would be at the 5 O'Clock position, from there clockwise it goes, 1, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2.
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.
Standing in front of the vehicle with the hood open, looking at the distributor, number 1 on the distributor cap would be at the 6 O'Clock position.