Edelbrock performer not performing

Did you undo the throttle cable where it's bolted to the manifold? If so, it has to be put back where it was, or adjust it so the linkage can move fully forward when it mates up with carb linkage.

Does it have an automatic choke? If so, it should be set 2 notches rich, (to the right).

Is your high speed cam allowing the choke plate to open fullly and not touch the cam at all once warmed up? If so, It needs adjusting also.

If all the linkage was OK before, you shouldn't have to bend any to adjust them. They should all be somewhat sloppy so nothing binds.

These settings have to all work together for it to work properly.

I recently went thru all this with my Carter. It starts and idles like a new car now.