Okay, here's the final report on my truck. As previously stated, I replced the wires and plugs. no change. then replaced the points. Same. I'd never worked with a timing light before, but my father brought one over, and although at 87, he's hazy on details, we figured it out and timed the truck. what difference! It'll climb hills with ease, runs 100% better all the way around, too. The ball mark wasn't even in the window when we started the timing process. Now it's centered and everything is fine.
Sooo, Denny Graham, TxLaTx and tcox, you all hit it.
There's no clatter from the valves, but I'll adjust them at some point this season.
Thanks, everyone!!!
