knocking mustang 5.0

[5150coupe]

i set everything as described, but still have the same issue. the only thing i could be doing wrong is maybe not getting the compression stroke, but i basically cranked the motor till i felt a surge of air and then set the timing marker to 0 degrees. all i get is a slight amount of backfiring. tomorrow i will remove the passenger side valve cover to make sure it is on the compression stroke by making sure the rockers are both at their lowest point.