Engine runs at 35deg BTDC!!

[cmpcpro]

Hi there!

Its a 1972 302 block with a cam and some headwork. Its got Performer RPM intake and a Holley 600. For the time being it has just a stock distributor with points (I know I know). At 8 BTDC it almost sounds like its not even the same motor. Almost like its on a strange firing order, but its not. It does seem to have a miss for some reason, and its much more evident at that timing.

It stutters really bad when you give it gas from an idle, but once it gets over 1k its as smooth as glass while its accelerating. However if you hold the engine at say 2k RPM, it will start to pop from the exhaust, like a minor to moderate backfire.

Water temperature, and oil pressure are great, however the motor just doesn't run good until it gets the snot advanced out of it. Like I said, right now its at about 35deg BTDC at idle (LOL!!) and that helps the stutter a good amount, and it sounds alot healthier at idle, but that really can't be right. On top of that it acts like it wants to go more.

I've checked the firing order countless times, switched it to both Ford orders, and nothing helps. Any ideas would be a BIG help, this thing is supose to be my daily driver, and I'm starting my new job Monday!!

Chris