Classic/Antique Car Repair: 72 chevelle, edlebrock carb, mild cam

Question
I just bought a 72 chevelle. It has a mild cam in a 350. I'm thinking the timing is off, what should it be set at? It just seems like it lacks a lot of power.I plan on doing a compression test soon. It has an edlebrock carb that backfires sometimes when I hit the gas from idle. Any suggestions? Thanks.

Answer
Mike;
HI well as far as the timeing I have no idea as what cam is in it. I would try it at 6 or 8 above tdc+  and check all plug wires 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2- if  just 1 is crossed it can pop also if the dist. is in wrong it can do the same thing. I would check to see that the dist. is in right.when n on tdc. the no# 1 on the rotor should be on the no#1 plug wire on the cap. if the dist is off or in by one tooth off it will do all types of things.check fo vacume leks too.
also did you adg. the carb.