Starting/Idle Problem 84 4Ksq

[gwbutler@net1plus.com]

Interesting sequence of events:

1. Engine purring nicely for months

2. Carefully removed entire wiper assembly for repair

3. At next ignition sequence; depressed gas pedal half-way to floor, turned key, engine turned over normally, tachometer went to 1400 RPM, then dropped...like a rock... stalling the car again, and again, and again. 

3A.  Fuel level was low, added 5 gallons of gas (with no improvement) 

4. After several attempts (no adjustments to engine though) managed to get engine to remain "on", but max RPM is 800, and engine backfires as though it has a distinct (a symptom)timing issue.

Before I pull out the Bentleys and repair something that isn't broken (and is probably a simple very simple fix, I thought I'd throw it out to you folks.  Any suggestions?

BTW, I've checked all wires, hoses and connections, especially those in the vicinity of the fuse box.

Regards,

George B.
84 4Ksq