In the future, you may be able to avoid being "tased' by just using a long screw-driver to short out the plugs momentarily, to test whether it affects the idle. If you've got heavy-duty plug boots, that won't work. Just an idea.
Here's another: Got a vacuum guage? a vacuum leak in the right spot will defeat the charge getting to the cylinder, rendering that cylinder useless, even though it's got good compression. Try spraying WD-40 around the intake manifold, around the carb. throttle shafts, etc. and listen for a change in engine speed. Does the truck have vacuum wipers? Try disconnecting that line and plugging it, see if it makes a difference. Also check the vac. advance line carefully.
Just a thought.
Keep at it, you'll figure it out eventually.
-Michael
