302 still running after turning off ignition

[AlexM556]

Ive got a 1978 302 in 67 mustang that has been idling high lately (about 1750 rpm) and when I turn off the engine it still fires once or twice before fully stopping. I was trying to adjust the carb to lower the idle today, thinking that this might have something to do with it since both problems started around the same time, but I couldnt seem to get the idle much lower. I went to turn off the engine since i couldnt figure it out, but this time it wouldnt quit running. It was running very rough of course since it had no spark and I unplugged the coil wire to be sure. It was running off of only compression I guess and was able to turn just fast enough to keep the mechanical fuel pump moving to feed itself. It eventually hissed and smoked from the carb and stopped running. I took the air cleaner off and saw some gas on the top of the carb around the air cleaner ring and I heard gas boiling inside. Im not sure if this is a carb issue or something deeper. What should I do here?

 

[Blackhawkxx]

First always check the simple/easy stuff first, disconnect the linkage at the carb to make sure that isn't hanging up. Do a visual check for any broken vacuum lines and with the engine off, look down into the carb to see if the throttle blades are fully closed. Is it a factory two barrel or aftermarket carb? Is the engine over heating?

 

[AlexM556]

First always check the simple/easy stuff first, disconnect the linkage at the carb to make sure that isn't hanging up. Do a visual check for any broken vacuum lines and with the engine off, look down into the carb to see if the throttle blades are fully closed. Is it a factory two barrel or aftermarket carb? Is the engine over heating?

Ive got an aftermarket carb (edelbrock 8867), engine temp is normal, no overheating. I didnt find any broken vacuum lines. If anything, the vacuum should be improved now that i have vacuum caps instead of the last owner's solution which was a short piece of hose with a bolt jammed into the end. All 4 blades appear to be fully closed and all linkage feels like it moves freely without binding.

 

[Blackhawkxx]

The next thing to check, pull the spark plugs to see if they are wet with fuel and check the timing. I understand checking with a light would be hard but to see if it's in the ballpark, pull number 1 plug, with your finger in the plug hole, have someone either turn the engine over by hand or bump the starter until you feel the pressure blowing you finger out. Look at your balancer and bring it up by hand until it is where you have the timing set (12 btds as an example) and your dist. rotor should be pointing to #1 plug wire.