when timing the ignition do you set the redline on the cranksshaft to the marker or the white line when i am setting the dizzy to number 1.

 

White is TDC, red is 16 BTDC. So if you are trying to install the Dizzy you want to have the arrow at white.

 

If you are using a basic timing light, adjust the distributor so that the red mark lines up with the pointer. If you are using a timing light with advance capability, dial in the amount of advance that you want (usually ~16 degrees) and adjust the distributor so that the white mark lines up with the pointer.