318 replacement cams....

A stock converter? That's not the best choice for a 318 with a smaller decent camshaft. Correct ignition timing will help the engine make more low end tq, and increase stall speed.

Advance the initial timing to where the engine wants it. Simple test. If your turn the distributor a bit CCW and the engine picks up rpm, it wants the timing. Reset idle speed and do it again.

Use a vacuum gauge, same deal, advance timing, picks up rpm, reset idle see where the vacuum reads. More, do it again until it peaks. Then back off timing so it drops 1".

As long as it doesn't kick back on the starter trying to start when hot, you're good.

If someone tells you to total time it... RUN!!!! Terrible method to time a street driven car.

Initial timing is REALLY important.