[jim_howard_pdx]

Sorry if I am a bit of a hard ***, but why in creation did you ever attempt a cam change if you do not know how to time an engine, know the difference between vacume secondary carbs and double pumpers, or know how to tell if the car is running lean or rich?

What were you thinking?

First, you need to let us know the initial timing at idle and the full idle at 3500-4000 RPM. If it is over 32 degrees, you need to disonnect the vacume secondary and plug both ends to eliminate any vacume leaks. Then readjust the timing so you get a maximum of 32 degrees at 4,000 RPM. Then let us know where your initial advance is, it should be between 6-15 degrees.

Second, you may be having coil problems. If your coil is saturating at high RPMS then your engine will die or miss badly. You need at least a 55k volt coil for that cam, and some good spark plugs like NGK V groove or racing plugs. What is your coil? How old is it? Is it mounted correctly. Some are oil filled and have to be mounted so the oil completely covers the coil inside, otherwise it toasts itself. I buy epoxy filled coils, they handle vibration better than oil.

Points--who runs points anymore. Do you have an electronic ignition box on your rig? If you do, convert over to the durospark ignition. Just buy a rebuilt 79 or up Mustang distributor and use the magnetic pickup on the ignition box. The points type distributors are old, and chances are that the distributor bearings are worn now, so the ignition is probably ALL OVER THE MAP. You need a rebuilt distributor and the points have got to go!

If the carb you are using has been sitting around for a month or so IT MUST BE REBUILT. I completely remove all gasoline on any carb I plan to store, otherwise the gasoline congeals and you get obstructions in places you cannot see or reach. That is why I said to soak it at least overnight.

You have to buy a holley rebuild manual at your local part store. This will help you identify the carb you are running and show you how to rebuild it. After all, you need to buy the right rebuild kit in the first place.

You are looking at doing some serious engine damage real soon if you do not get the ignition spark, timing, and air to fuel ratio correct.

PLEASE do not blow this off.

Contact a local Mustang club and BEG for help and mercy. They may save this project for you, and you might make some friends during the process.