I while back bought a 1973 Chevy C10 pickup. The engine is a 350 with about 150,000 miles. I noticed in the last day or so that the truck started to backfire when I would go above about 40mph, but I could keep it from backfiring as long as I continued to give it a little gas. I figured that I needed to tune it up so I replaced my spark plugs, distributor cap, points and condenser. Now doesn't even start. It cranks but doesn't even try to turn over. I have had no problems with the engine prior to this incident. I'm fairly certain I replaced the cables in the same order I took them off in (I changed them out one at a time). I'm in the process of backtracking through everything but was hoping that I could get some idea where I went wrong. It's been over 10 years since I've done any automotive repair so I'm not sure what the problem is. I appreciate your help in this matter.

CJ


(This post was edited by cmarquar110 on May 5, 2008, 4:36 PM)

Do you have spark?

I suspect the points aren't set.
I imagine you installed a one piece point set (points and condenser.)
Open the window in the distributor and using the right tool inserted into the points adjuster,you can try adjusting the points in or out depending on their gap setting now,best to do while someone cranks the engine for you ,that way you can tell when your close or right on,it will hit/start.
Then get a tach /dwell meter and set the points to the correct dwell. (29-31 )

JIm