1997 engine not starting following head repl

I have a 97 LS 4x4. I just replaced the head gaskets and the upper and lower intake gaskets, replaced plugs and the wires. I can't get the truck to start at all. It just chugs and gasps. I doubled checked all the engine connnections as well as the plug wires. I am 98% sure that they are re-installed correctly. Any suggestions to try?

Check that other 2 percent... Unless you are sure you have them on right, then you could still have them on wrong. Also, if the engine doesn't start check the three key things... Spark, which might be a problem if you put the wires on wrong, Compression, which might be a problem if the head gasket didn't seal right, but should be okay, and fuel, as in is the injector connected, and is there fuel flow? Check those things in that order.

Just to verify, because my Chilton's shows the hook up 2 different ways. I currently have the wires on the HVS going to the corresponding cylinders that the HVS has listed on top. I believe I have already tried the second way they show with the same result. I'll check again and follow the compression and fuel checks to, thanks

It sounds to me like the distributor is not installed correctly, maybe 180 degrees out. Do you understand that #1 cyl must be at TDC on COMPRESSION STROKE when dist is installed? If you have #1 TDC on exhaust stroke, you will be 180 off.

The driver's side plugs have to be watched for being put on the wrong way.

http://img1.putfile.com/thumb/10/27801112384.jpg (http://www.putfile.com/pic.php?img=3594021)

Click image for bigger version.

Notice how the #1 and #3 are swapped around on the cap and plug.

Make sure it is that way on your engine.

Also, don't just replace the plugs and wires. Replace the cap and rotor as well. New plugs and wires mean nothing when the cap and rotor are corroded and can't even get the better sprak to the news plugs through the new wires.