I am installing a new timing chain/set 1955 292 Thunderbird.   I have the chain set up as in the picture below (dots on the gears are 12 links away, and keyways lined up correctly) .   I "assumed" the rotor would be pointing to cylinder 1.  I checked the distributor and it's pointing to 6, which is 180 degrees away from 1.  I did not remove the distributor while working on the timing chain.    I have removed it in the past and always re-installed it as it came out.
If the distributor is 180 out would the car run? 

Did you bring #1 to TDC on the compression stroke (not exhaust stroke) before installing the timing set?

I lined up the marks and the key ways to look like the picture.  I didn't check the rotor.   I then installed the new chain and gears to match the old set.   I did not remove the distributor, or turn the engine during the process.
Worst case I assume may have to remove and re-install the distributor 180 degrees if it doesn't start

Totally normal for the distributor rotor to be pointing to the #6 terminal in the distributor cap when the timing chain setup is sitting as pictured.  The #1 cylinder, although at TDC just like the #6 cylinder, will be at the midpoint of the overlap cycle at that position which is typical for most timing sets on their initial alignment regardless of the make of engine. 

Lorena, Texas (South of Waco)