Originally posted by R Pope
Too rich won't cause "popping", its too lean. Running out of fuel is a possibility, but I'd try new plugs. You can't tell a bad plug by looking at 'em, especially in a SBC, they're plug eaters. Also, don't use Champions, one or two of every batch will quit in a week or so. Plug wires will also cause it.
Ron, I beg to differ.For the past 15 or more years I have been reading plugs.I make a pass, kill the engine pull the plugs and if they look black I keep (leaning it down) two jets sizes at a time.When I reach a (carmel color) I know I am very close.When it hits light tan I stop.To give you an idea of how close I was last time after I switched carbs we went back to the dyno and did a few pulls.EGT averaged 1310 not bad for a guy just reading plugs.I have used this method for many years only to burn just two pistons.The only plugs I really can't read are those on alcohol or when someone has added something to the gas.