Okay guys. Finally got the 318 to idle decent and figured out the auto kickdown and got it dialed or so i thought. I went to start the Belvedere today and let it warm up for about ten minutes. Drove it around the block and everything seemed to work just fine. I let it idle for another 15 or 20 minutes in the driveway and took it for another spin around the block. After it REALLY warmed up the car seemed REALLY sluggish and seemed to struggle until about 3000 rpm and then it would smooth out?? I've got new points, distributor cap, rotor, and plugs. No vacuum leaks in the carb either. When I give the carb some throttle by manually pushing the throttle pin the motor seems to struggle and smoothes out at higher rpm? What could it be and where do I start? It was such a drastic difference between the first ride around the block from the second and I'm hoping it's not time for a rebuild just yet?

 

how did you set the points? did you use a dwell meter?

 

I didn't use a dwell meter to set the points. Just preset the gap by using a feeler gauge??? Could this be my problem? Thanks

 

yes, I always used a dwell meter on my old points equipped cars. I think i set the points on my 318 to 32 degrees dwell. Points that are set too narrow act like you are describing. Plugs need to be gapped correctly too. Use the 67 specs.
I geuss these will be something I would start to look at first. (cause they're easy)' BTW, I had a 67 Belv. with points and 318.

 

I'll check it out tomorrow and let you know how things go. Thanks for the great advice. I'm really leaning towards the electronic ignition as I'm not a big fan of these points. Oh well-I'm loving every minute wrenching on the Belvedere! They're great cars.

 

I agree, my Belvedere was the best car I ever owned. And I've had a bunch of 'em.
Electronic ignition would be good also.

 

have you also checked the timing?

 

I set timing to 10 degrees BTDC. I'm heading out to set the points right now. Will let you know how it goes. Thanks

 

Well... it was the points! Set the gap again and used a dwell meter this time... Idled better than ever and runs like a new car! My next purchase is going to be a Mopar electronic ignition most definitely. Thanks for everyone's help...It feels great to have the Belvedere on the road running like a champ!