well changed dist retimed engine reset all ground wires plus added new one frame to block power to dist but not plug wires or plugs running out of things to check

 

First, externally charge battery.
Ensure rotor points to #1 cylinder at TDC and cylinder is on power stroke.
if timing light flashes, then spark is happening.
Has starting fluid been used?

 

reset timing took all ground wires off and cleaned installed another ground from frame to block replaced dist tried starter fluid no joy power to dist but no spark to plug wires or plugs running out of things to check also have spark tester tried 3 dist 1 brand new they cannot all be bad

 

Run jumper wire from battery to distributor

 

Do these distributors have the 4 wire connector like the one that would have come with the car originally?

If a old school HEI distributer has power and ground and you turn the gear with your fingers it should fire. These are easy to bench test. No way the car can effect the bench test. Most chain parts stores used to be able bench test them for you.

Google or youtube search "how to bench test a gm hei distributor"

 

okay Gorn bench tested another distributer and got a good spark so put it in the car hooked positive and ground direct to battery hooked spark tester up cranked engine and no spark what is going on any other tips thanks this is 3rd gen 85 Z no air

 

Reads like no ign circuit power when in START position.
Either switch is worn or needs adjustment on top of steering column.
If starter has power in START, so should ign
You could always add wire from solenoid S terminal to dist power terminal.

 

The distributor is turning?

A stock 85 would have a 4 wire connector that runs to the CCC system. The computer command controls system controls the timing advance. If there is a a problem with the computer, you could lose spark. If I remember right you can disconnect the 4 wire connector and jump A to C on the distributer side and the distributer should work enough to start. .

 

put new Flame thower coil in have spark to plugs reset timing have gas but still will not fire not a splutter also changed ignition switch

 

Did you confirm the dist. is turning when you spin the motor with the starter(cap off watch rotor)? Have you checked compression?