Beyond Frustrated - Wont start/stay running

AJ,

The more and more tests I do on the ignition system, I am getting a feeling there is something screwy about the carb. But as you quoted my first post, I felt a ever so slight bucking at first that only grew worse. To the point the car would not accelerate. It eventually died and couldn't and wouldnt start. Now the only things I replaced so far are the condenser, coil, ballast (which I still need to check the resistance on and the arcing as described above). And I am able to get it running, however short and how ever rough, but still, there is a glimmer of hope. Now does that still sound like a compression issue? or something wrong with the carb? I am not challenging you, I am just trying to understand so if this happens in the future the car isnt down and out for weeks at a time.

I understand what you are saying with cam timing and the such. But again, this engine was rebuilt (with a valve job) about 20,000-25,000 miles ago (about 10 years) by a reputable shop, how would it need another valve job by now? When ever I changed the plugs they always showed a good running engine. furthermore, if the valves are out of time that means the timing chain/gears went screwy, wouldnt the problems I encountered on the road happen differently than what I experienced in 2-3 miles at 70 mph? and if timing went that far off that it wouldnt want to start again, then how would I be able to get it started again? again, not challenging you, just trying to understand.

I appreciate your help