Help with timing 85 GT 2.8L 4SP

How on earth does one time the 2.8L? I have a Chiltons and a Haynes, they both say to disconnect the 4 pin connector at the distributor. If I do this, the car will not start, so I can't set the timing. Now can somebody please tell me I'm doing it wrong, then enlighten me! I've been working on my own cars for 20+ years, and have never NOT been able to set the timing on a car. FYI, it's my son's car.

Thanks!

Mike

ok this is the way you do it
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CzDk9wswG4

if this site dosn work google timing a fiero