SKOT

OK so I replaced the dist cap and wires...didn't pay attention to the old wires I figured I have a ford powertrain manual so.....WELL I wired it up 1,3,7,2,6,5,4,8 BC that's what ive been told the order was....engine barely runs and backfires...according to the ford manual the aforementioned order is for 351...the 302 is 1,5,4,2,6,3,7,8....but that's supposed to be for then non HO engines...I ran out of time and didn't get to change to the other order.... any info?

again thanks

mongolchuck

If that is the original motor it should be the ho. Make sure you didn't turn your distributer and remember ford numbers cylinders different than gm. 1234 on the right (pass) side front to back. 5678 left (driver) side front to back. Dist turns counter clockwise when looking from above.
Here's a link with a good illustration.
http://www.gtsparkplugs.com/firing-order-ford-302-351.html