thanks man youve been there all the way...... im going to try it next... yes the crank is at 0 and the dist. points at #1.... i havent looked at valves yet. i have a big head ache and dont want to touch it.. but its not backfiring the the carb anymore tho..... it sounds like it wants to whirl over and give me what shes got... but im not that lucky....it only has to last till march then a 5.0 is in...