You definitely need a timing light. Used ones are almost free at garage sales. I got a new digital one off ebay for ~$35. Sounds like you set the distributor correctly since you said "TDC on compression". I assume you pulled the #1 plug and put your finger in the hole to feel for compression. Also, that your "#1" is indeed the fwd-most cylinder (driver's side). Note that #2 (passenger's) is not exactly in-line with #1. If the timing light flashes close or before TDC while cranking and no fire, try spraying some starter fluid down the carb.