Update: I installed a new coil, new points, new condenser, new spark plugs. I lined up the timing mark on the flywheel with the pointer, and the rotor points to #1 cylinder. I can start the truck with difficulty by flooring the accelerator and letting off, but I have to keep feeding the accelerator or it will die, and when running, it is extremely rough.
I have not performed a compression check on all the cylinders or tried to re-adjust the distributor (via octane selector, etc.), since I need another pair of hands to help with those operations (I can enlist a buddy to help out as the next step). I have also not switched out another carburetor since I don’t have another Rochester B on my shelf, though I do have one in another truck—but I hate to pull it off that truck at this point.
I’m beginning to worry about the timing gear—is it possible that a tooth or two sheared off the timing gear and the truck is now out of time? If that’s the case, would the engine even run? The rotor shaft in the distributor does not turn freely, so the pin there has not sheared. I suppose the next step would be to pull the valve cover and check for correct valve movement, bent pushrods, etc.
Is it possible that the timing gear has been damaged but still able to run the truck? Is there a simple and not-so-invasive way of checking the timing gear? Am I barking up the wrong tree?
Thanks for your advice.
Jim
