i bought an 1982 trans am with a 305 the guy told me it was all ready for the road it has to be jumped to start it but when its running its sounds so dam good i cleand the exhaust out and it sounds better now. but when i shut the car off it wont start up with out a jump i was told it was the timeing but i wana get comments i was also told it was the altinator but idk where to start i leave for the mariens soon and i just want thatg firts ride befor i go please help me

Check battery and charging system when battery known good. A bad battery can take out the alternator! Timing should be about where it was left last - this engine uses a chain but at the age even it could need doing. From descition it's not the up front problem,

T
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Tom Greenleaf - MetroWest, Boston