Classic/Antique Car Repair: engine, 1972 chevy c10, vacuum advance

Question
Yes I just put in a rebuilt 350 bored .030 over that i installed in my 1972 chevy c10 and i got it to idle great but when i go to put in reverse or drive the idle drops and almost dies or it dies I think the timing is close but cant seem to get past this point what is going on that i haved missed

Answer
David,
 Assuming the engine is in good shape and timed correctly, it is likely carburetion.  Several things to check:
-  The idle speed screw of idle jets are misadjusted.
-  The choke is not opening after warmup.
-  The main jets are clogged or mismatched for the engine.
-  Also, the distributor vacuum advance may not be working.

Still, I would double check timing, it should be 6-8 BTDC, assuming everything is stock (no performance cam, etc.)  It should have about 40 total advance at about 3000 RPM.

It may be advisable to check compression.  If you still can't get it going good, check cam timing to make sure your #1 valves are fully closed and the distributor is pointing at plug wire 1 when the piston is TDC, which will verify the timing chain is on correctly.

- Rick