thanks for the great tips axistr.

i'm always solo when working on a car so need a system for finding TDC on my own mate.
plugs were very wet after multiple failed attempts to start yesterday and look to have been running way too rich.
Once I held the throttle open today it jumped to life straight away. Is this a sign that there is possibly an issue with the heads?

not sure about oil pressure. there is plenty of oil on the rockers so it's pumping up the pushrods I guess. i'd like to check vaccum but don't have a gauge. fuel is fresh from a bottle. thanks again