[Excaliber]

Phasing.

Let me take a stab at it. The number 1 spark plug wire is actually in the number 2 hole of the distributor cap. Number 2 wire is in number 3 hole, etc. etc.? The timeing is kinda OK, the engine runs, but the spark energy is reduced?

The rotor tip should be in good alignment with the metal electrode that leads to the spark plug wire at the top of the distributor WHEN the coil fires. You can tell how well it's aligned by looking at the metal segment. If it's all burned up on one edge and NOT in the middle, this alignment is not good. Never heard it called "phasing", but the term fits very well to describe the condition. I would think this would be a problem only after some "time" had passed. On a new rotor and cap it may not be noticed right away.

Ernie

Edit: In diagnostics the "eternal" and "first" question has always been.....Is it a spark or fuel issue? Tough call when it's both!