Thanks to all for the input on my 72 350 olds. Here are 5 items that made a big impact on my rebuild:
1- route all fuel lines away from the block and replace the 2 dollar fuel filter
2- I was a quart low on tranny fluid, which was resulting in sluggish shifting
3- I lightened the springs on my distributor to let the advance come in a bit quicker
4- I ran my vac advance to the left/drivers side of my 1405 edelbrock
5- and the BEST improvement. Add a phenolic spacer between the carb and intake.

Easily number 5 was the best ever.. With cheap fuel these days, the fuel will evaporate right out of the carb within minutes of shutting it off. With the phenolic spacer, my car starts right up every time.

 

Now try a 180 or 160 thermostat, for another difference!

 

Will do- thanks