Help With my crate 427 Engine Won't Start

[Davidless]

Frustrated
I built a test stand so I could test and run my Ford 427 crate engine before the install in my SF. I recently had to replace both head gaskets because I noticed some oil seepage form the rear of both heads. Then to my dismay my oil was a bright beige in color, WOWE is me. I got the usual from the Ford performance dept… “never seen that problem in 20 years” I at least got a set of gaskets from them because it’s still under warranty.

At first, I thought the engine oil dye I used may have caused the oil color change but after letting some oil test samples set on my counter for a week, I can see some water separation at the top.

After taking my utmost time in changing out the gaskets and adjusting the rocker lash, and re assembling I cannot get this thing to start, it does the typical backfire and flame through the carburetor (timing was not off 180). I quadrupole checked TDC and alignment on #1 cylinder with the rotor cap, plugs are wet, and all valves are opening and closing, plus checked for spark, everything good.

I talked to an engine builder buddy from work and we both are now thinking it might be the Progression electronic distributor/ignition as a possible cause. I talked to them, but they don’t feel its their problem, but I can send it back for them to check.

This just doesn’t make sense. I dressed the engine up from the crate long block and it started right up, and I ran it many times for about 2 months. I was so impressed it would start with 2 pumps within 1 crank, better than fuel injection, so I thought.

Wires were installed as a unit with the cap when assembling so it’s not a wire mix up problem. I’m thinking of sending the ignition/dist. back to see if they can check it, and possibly installing a mechanical type for trouble shooting or eliminating this variable.
Not sure what else to try.

David