1.7L still running terribly, $1800 and a month in the shop yields a barely drivable teener Options

[BCinSC]

rough running
stalls at idle
backfires
0-50 takes several minutes (notice I didn't say 60 - can't hit that)
strong smell of raw gas

all speaks to at least one cylinder not firing

No visible signs of leaking fuel.
2 new injectors don't seem to have helped
Trigger and Ignition points replaced
Ignition wires checked and rechecked
Timing was supposedly set, but will check myself when I get home.

Why is this thing so cranky?

[avidfanjpl]

I know I say this a lot, but make sure cyl 3 plug wire is tucked under injector pipes and not near the MPS. MPS goes crazy with a wire too close.

Also sounds like you could have that vacuum leak just mentioned, like the AAR hose that goes to the air cleaner is open. Put a CV ball bearing in it 1 inch from the AAR and see if your idle smooths out. Then if it works, go buy a good used AAR.

And check your firing order. Or, it may be that the plug wires are not fully inserted into the dizzy cap and coil.

Had that problem more than once.

John