Classic/Antique Car Repair: 1972 Olds 98, skilled mechanic, leak down test

Question
I have a 1972 Olds 98 that needs a new carburetor.  I've taken it to a couple mechanics, but they can't seem to get it timed just right.  It has a 455 bbl v8 engine.  Do you have an idea what the problem may be, or a suggestion as to how I get this fixed?  It has less than 100k miles and this is all that is wrong with the car.  I appreciate your time.

pj

Answer
The carburetor and the timing are totally separate and unrelated issues - so I'm having a bit of trouble understanding your question - can you give me a little more information - especially what the symptoms are and what the troubleshooting history and condition of the engine is?  I certainly wouldn't attempt a diagnosis on the information I have so far.

The 1972 Olds 455 is about as solid, durable and reliable an engine as any of them, so if it isn't running right, the thing to do is to get it to a shop which can run a complete diagnosis on it. This would include a compression and leak-down test, and if it passes those tests, a complete tune-up.  That should result in another 100K trouble-free miles without further attention.

If it fails the compression test, the leak-down test will lead a skilled mechanic to what needs attention before the engine will be back to normal performance.

Dick