318 runs real load and shakes like crazy

Video clip of engine running below:

I’m helping my father restore a ‘70 Duster with 318 motor. We initially could not get the engine to spark and run. After replacing the rich, charred, plugs with ngk basic copper ones and cleaning the starter relay connections.. we finally got it to turn over and run. We also replaced the carb with a renewed Edelbrock 1405.

Current issue: The car runs really, and I mean REALLY, loud. The timing can’t seem to be dialed-in; as the notched line in the harmonic balancer isn’t showing (at all) with the three timing guns we have. We did recently establish the firing order at top dead center and that’s really what was able to get the car to start.

The other thing is that the cooling fan visibility changes speed when you stare directly at it. Almost like there’s some hesitation.

I know there’s a lot I need to check into but, do you guys have any ideas what to start looking at?

I’ve tried setting the curb idle and carb set screws. Fully closed set screws and /or fully open set screws currently have zero impact. If I adjust curb idle (barely lower) the engine stalls out.




If that is the original engine, it has the wrong timing cover. Timing mark should be on passenger side, water inlet on left. Timing would be way off. If it is a 71 could be either.