Nice power found
As stated earlier, I PM'd my 3FE's ignition with new OEM plugs, wires, cap and rotor and changed the distributor O-ring while I was there (it was leaking badly). I marked the position of the dizzy, and got it back to that spot (eventually after 5 tries). Anyway, after a little research and reading, I decided to play with the timing a bit. I couldn't find a timing light, so I thought I'd go at it by ear/feel. I could always go back. Well...I ended up advancing the timing a bit and WOW, what an increase in the response and power. It actually feels more like a auto now than a tractor. My idle is still dead on at 650 rpms and she seems to actually idle smoother now. Some of it could be placebo effect, but there is definitely more zip and response.
I've owned her since March, and so I don't have any long time history, but I wonder if the PO had monkeyed around with the timing and set it back to far? Either way, she is running very smooth and has more pep. Probably just normal for some of you, but feels like a new ride to me!!