Hello all,

I have a 57 Thunderbird that I can't get to run smoothly. 312 Y block with 3x2bbl carbs (Ford/Holley 2100). This requires a bit of a preamble, however.

THE PREAMBLE: Awhile back, I pushed my luck with how far I could go on a tank of gas, and ended up dry and unable to start. After buying some gas (and a gas can) and filling her back up, when I finally got her started, I had a huge backfire out the center carb. She idled super rough but I was able to drive her home. I suspect I created a vacuum problems or blew out a gasket or something. She was already leaking from everywhere and needed a rebuild anyway. I got her back a couple months ago but she still idles super rough.

THE PRESENT: I'm rebuildling all the carbs now (just a simple disassembly/carb soak/toothbrushing/new gaskets). However I'm afraid of how smoothly everything will go when I try to put everything back together. I've never tuned a card before, nevermind a tricarb setup. Add that onto I'm not sure if the vacuum system had/still has leak or if the engine is even firing 100% right. (having not done the rebuild myself, I naturally don't trust the work)

Any novice-level advice for (only owned this car 2 yrs, driven it 1) putting this miniature Exxon-Valdez back together smoothly?