1994 Ford Taurus Won't Start

Engine Mechanical problem
1994 Ford Taurus 6 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic 160K miles

I started out to replace the water pump, and because of a stud that refused to come out, I had to go the long route and remove the timing chain cover and all of the other things that go with it. All of the replacements being in place, I am in the process of trying to start the car. I removed plug #1 and since you cannot get your finger or thumb in place to feel the compression at the top of the stroke, I used a small screwdriver to feel the top of the piston at the top of the stroke. At the same time, I assured that the pointer on the timing chain cover and the notch on the damper are in line and the rotor is pointing in the position of the #1 post on the distributor cap. In other words, by the book. It still won't start. Help