However, this is not guaranteed. There's no single universal standard. The best way to be certain is:
1. Consult a repair manual specific to your 1983 Ford Econoline E-350 with the 5.8L engine. This manual will have a diagram of the distributor cap showing the correct firing order and the corresponding cylinder number location.
2. Check the engine itself. The firing order is printed on a sticker somewhere on the engine block or valve cover. Once you know the firing order (usually 1-5-4-2-6-3-7-8), you can trace that order around the distributor cap to locate #1.
Simply relying on a general rule can lead to misfiring and engine damage. Use a reliable repair manual to be absolutely sure.