vf750f (84) engine-cam timing question on procedures

Good day.

My son and I have put the engine back in after replacing the head gaskets and installing cleaned up lobes and cams. We tried to follow the Clymer manual then decided to use the HSM instead.
Still, we have aligned marks on the sprockets, all cams facing the correct direction and although there is no clashing of valves (no noises anyway) when we rotated manually and when using the starter, we still can't get it started and we do have some occasional flames shooting out of the exhaust. Not sure what we may have done wrong but reading up on this procedure, the Clymer and some early HSM manuals may have been wrong.
Any suggestions?

2nd question. If we rotated manually and there was no interference, and no obvious sounds of clashing valves when using the starter, can I assume the valves did not interfere? I really don't want to yank the carbs off again for a visual look if I can avoid it.

Thank you.

 

Well, embarrassing as it is, I think I caused the problem. I am looking at the HSM again and again and there is a part where it indicates that the marks on the cam (id marks) should be pointing up or down rather than one up and one down when at 1/3 and the horizontal marks are aligned with the casing tops.
if this is the issue, i have to flip the exhaust cams or intake cams 180 degrees.
Now, if I loosen the inner studs and cap bolts to do this, will I have to replace the head gaskets as well? I'm hoping I can evade that issue or this will likely kill this project. There was no clashing of metal when we turned the engine by hand prior to installing it so fingers crossed.

 

whatever you do.........keep turning BY HAND after any adjustments.

no, head gasket isn't disturbed by removing cams. even one sprocket hole off will keep it from running right.

 

Thank you Squirrelman.