Cam was installed straight up, with brand new double roller gear set, plugs are dry and clean. Like I said b4, the only reason I messed with the timing the first go around was because a was out of Ideas. I didn't have means of accurately turning the motor (via 3/4" ratchet and socket) so I just keeped adv it lil by lil until I got a reaction. Judging by how far I had to turn it, Id say it was retarded by a good bit. Also the msd bypasses the ballast, so I have 12v in start/run. I had someone cranking this time, otherwise I use a remote start switch that I hook to the starter. I see no point in checking spark at the coil, or cap when I have good strong spark at all eight wires (which are brand new accel 8.8's). Its mystifing no doubt.