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Here's a simple method to get you in the ballpark (close enough for visual observing). You don't need to be able to see the pole or even know where it is.
Set the Azimuth adjustment to the middle point. Move the mount so that the counterweight bar is pointing directly down. You can use the marks but I find eyeballing the bar over the tripod leg is easier. Turn the scope on the Dec axis to point parallel to the RA axis (ie pointing to where the pole would be if it was already polar aligned.
Turn on the mount and set the time and location. When it asks you to align, cycle through to "Quick Align". It will think for a bit and come back and say that it's set up. Now tell it to slew to something that you know and will recognize. The Moon or Jupiter would be good. Now move the mount in Alt and Az to get the object into view. You're now roughly polar aligned.
With a bit of practice I usually find that I'm within a degree when I go from there and drift align or do the whole 4+2, ASPA thing.
Steve.
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