I've posted this in the 302 small block section, but thought I'd try and get some of the slick guys advice....

I've got a 73 302...(has rebuilt 69 heads) just replaced distrib. (stock Motorcraft-professionally rebuilt) and when dialing in the point gap,
the dwell numbers wander around. My Pertronix Ignitor was defective, so I've re-installed the points until the replacement arrives. Vac
Advance tested fine. Could this be the timing gear is worn out on the cam shaft? I planned on replacing the camshaft/and timing chain/gear
with stock ones...what was the throw on a stock 302? I don't want to get into a discussion on hot cams and all that really, I just
basically want to get it running smooth again...This truck is a farm truck D.D, all I want is an original 302 Cam, or something not too
extreme that's going to open a can of worms on me when it comes to lifters, rods and the heads etc...

Thanks in advance for any help,
Jason

 

Likely reasons from most likely to least: 1. Worn distributor shaft bushings. 2. Points cam lobes worn unevenly. 3. Timing chain slop - usually both the gears and the chain.