I have a 1984 caprice brougham staion wagon, 305 V8 carb. I got it from a junk yard. When I first got it i did the oil change and it had 12 quarts of oil in it. I have changed the battery, did the brake pads on it and replaced a freeze plug. Unfortunetly the engine runs rough. I think the carb just needs a rebuild I don't know. Can anyone help me troubleshoot?

 

Check every vacuum line, carb base ect. for vacuum leaks. Is this ESC (electronic spark control)? If it runs, although rough, I'd make bet either vacuum leak, bad fuel.

 

What is ESC (electronic spark control)? I have checked the distributor electrically. It is not the stock distributor it is a mallory called the company got the info on it. Everything was good on it. Replaced spark plugs. Could it be something with the carb?

 

You have an HEI aftermarket (high energy ignition). You post it runs rough, again, replace or at least check ALL vacumm lines. I'd also suggest with starting fluid with it running lightly spray around the carb base to check it for leaks (sucking air).