Does it have to be top dead center to set the timing? Can someone please give me step by step instructions on it? l have the haynes manual but it does not answer all my questions.

there should be two timing belts

Your distributor has an elongated slot in it by the hold down bolt. Loosen the bolt & set it in the middle of the slot. Start the car & let it run. Slowly turn the distributor first one way, then the other. Whichever way raises ur idle, is the correct way to go. Move it in that direction about 1/8th inch from center. You should be at the recommended advance at that point.

All this is assuming that u r simply trying to adjust ur timing. If this is the result of a much larger project, l would need more information.

Are u talking about ignition timing or timing the engine?

Ignition timing:
Unless the distributor has been pulled out there should be no reason to adjust it. But if u want to check it, first thing to do is find the green connectors (either under hood near the firewall or under the drivers side dash & connect them. When u start the vehicle the check engine light should flash, this means that it is in base timing. Next pull the plug on the back of the engine to see the flex plate or flywheel. Connect ur timing light & check to see if it is at the proper °. Loosen the two distributor bolts & adjust as necessary.

Assuming that ur vehicle is an OHC & not an OHV..
Engine timing:
Pull the same plug rubber plug on the engine. Turn the engine till u see three lines. There is a pointer on the engine block, line it up with the center mark. On the camshafts there r notches in the covers on each side & a single line of the cam pulley; line one up at 12 o'clock & the other at 6. It does not matter which side as long as they r opposite.