Distributor/Ignition problems

[mrtimstik]

Took the distributor out of my small block chevy and put it in I believe incorrectly because the timing marks are past (retarded) the indicator by about 15-20 degrees when I time the car. The car starts right up but runs rough and when I rotate the cap to get the mark to go near the 0 it dies. Backing the rotor 1 tooth produces the exact same indication, I just have to spin the cap to get it to start. MSD 6A ignition has been in for years and just put in an Optima battery. Before my bold adventure timing was 16 before at idle and 35 at 3000 rpm as checked with a seasoned dial back Craftsman light. I am missing something and am completely confused on this problem. I would greatly appreciate any suggestions.