You "checked for spark" but didn't say if you got spark or not. You need to slow down. Tell us what you found for spark. Tell us if you see gas squirting down carb throat. People say they did all the necessary "tests" and then ask what to do. First thing is: you missed something basic. If you did not get spark why test compression? You need to advise what the test results are, not that you tested. Need clear explanations from you not thinking outside the box. Stay inside the box. It's just a standard no start situation. We/you will find it pretty soon. Stay engaged with us.
Kind of strange it ran, then stopped, then changed HEI, then ran, then stopped. Just stay with spark and fuel for now. If you see spark and you see fuel, let us know.
Spark tester? No No no. Look at the plug gap for spark. Good bright snappy spark. White, yellow, blue, does not matter. It will light gas vapor.
What does sputtered mean?
Fired/tried to run
Backfired thru carb
No fire at all
Popped somewhere
Backfire thru tail pipe
I am focusing on the HEI was good, then no good, then replaced, then good, then no start. Something there is fishy. Should not have had to re-time it really. Are you using new HEI's or old one's from a stash? Check to see that the hot wire to HEI has voltage when cranking motor. Pull it off of the HEI connector blade and check it.
