fuel smell from 383 engine

Have an issue with my 66 charger 383 4 barrel automatic.

Haas a strong fuel smell , not from the carb but from the exhaust when running. My initial timing is set at 20 curved not to exceed 35 degrees. Carb is a newer edelbrock 650 cfm.

I am used to the older cars smelling but this one is really bad.

When I bring the initial up to 25 degrees the smell is gone but the "off the line torque" is diminished. Started begins to kick back so I know I am as far as I want to go on the initial timing.

I am curious why the off the line torque would drop off. It seems I am burring all the fuel which would help with the torque.

I cannot remember what cam is in this motor but is is a mild cam. also have 915 heads.