Reading Plugs? Calling all FE experts...

[luke-44]

Originally posted by 392cobra
What is all the black stuff on the plugs ?
Exhaust leak or leaking valve covers ?

Fred - thanks for the input, but I am ruling those possibilites out as the headers/valve covers are clean as a whistle. It is strange though - the oil seems to be more below the seating area and on the threads than above it. Again, these are the first ever miles, so I am feeling my way here.

Originally posted by CJ428CJ
You say it stutters and misses when you hit the gas. Is that a temporary situation that then smoothes out or does it continue to miss and sputter under load? Double check the timing (both initial and total).
Chris

Chris - good question - to be honest with you, I need to drive the car again - I was kinda overwhelmed by a bunch of senses with my first ever drive and all, and I was wondering the same thing upon reflection - this might be a clue to gas starvation/settings. I will try again tomorrow - bringing the revs up slow and seeing how it goes - being a new motor, I don't want to rev it too high - I was thinking up to 4500 or so - I guess this is safe for a new motor....as well, you end up well over the speed limit real quick in these cars (another "first" observation)

I can only assume the firing order is right, based on how it starts and idles - (do you have the firing order handy?). Thanks for the timing specs - I'll check it in the AM.

Originally posted by TerribleTed13
I'm not sure about that MSD system, but I think its all electronic after the base. Are there any springs or weights in the distributor? I have the MSD Pro BIllet Type. Whats your elevation/altitude? Do you know what jets you have? What model holley is that? You may need the rejetable plate between the secondary float and base of the carb.

Ted - I'll dig into the distributor in the AM. I thought MSD replaced points, but my experience is from the old coil/points/rotor days. I am also a newby when it comes to holleys - I don't know what size or type, or how to play with jets. My 1st thought was to eliminate electrical, and if that doesn't get it I would dig into the carb.