Engine runs rough

I have an 83 305 V8. Recently when i went to start my car it began to run really rough. This isnt my daily driver yet and so it mostly sits in my driveway unless i need to move it. I think it was backfiring too when i would rev it. I didnt think it was running this way because it was cold since i had started it in much colder weather before and even letting it sit for a few minutes to warm up didnt seem to change anything. Im guessing the engine is just all carboned up and the car probably needs to be run on the highway. I doubt it has anything to do with the valve cover gasket leaking oil on the engine but thats the only problem this car has ever had. I've heard of something called "sea-foaming" and i guess this cleans the engine, but i dont know if this is what i should be doing so could someone help.

I would try running a few tanks of premium gas through it. Mine ran real crappy for a while then I just filled up with like 92 or 93 premium gas. The first tank, my gas mileage dropped dramaticly. But the next tank of gas, and every tank of gas since, my car has run alot better. Words just dont explain the difference.

Top rid the engine of carbon, you can always try the ol' water down the carb trick. It works great for engines with a good amount of buildup, but if you don't know what your doing and dump too much in, you risk hyrolocking the engine.

I would also look into a tune up, thats the first thing i did with mine when i got it, new plugs, wires, dist cap and fuel filter.

I'd go with the tune up suggestion. Cars that sit around have problems with moisture getting into old wires and distributor caps. A change of plugs, PCV valve and gas filter will surely help.

Bob

yeah i was thinking about a tune up too. almost every wire you touch literally disintegrates away. i'd say im well overdue for a tuneup...

you will notice a good difference after a tuneup, and if you still got any problems then just go from there

Make sure you get name brand wires with some sort of warranty. I like the Standard brand myself. Delco wires should be ok too. Wires alone should make a dramatic difference.

Bob

yeah delco wires are good, thats what i have right now too. i'd eventually like to get an MSD ignition setup but thats getting into performance stuff there.