Engine Acting Up

Friend has offered to give me a mid-60's 427 out of his car before it gets "totalled out" (despite damage being minimal). Took a drive in the car, and engine runs smooth until going uphill or giving it some gas. It sounds like it is pinging but then studders and learches and the exhaust note goes from normal to a very low growl. We added an octane booster (thought might help with the pinging) and problem still is present. What would you guys suggest looking at given a short amount of time? I was thinking of checking the floats and fuel filters to see if lack of fuel is causing the issue-
Thanks guys!
 
the issue that came to mind is money. If this engine is going to cost me a bunch of cash and/or require a bunch of work that I cannot do myself, then the cost of the engine will not really be worth it (despite how badly I actually want it). What would you guys go about checking first? I thought fuel filter, float, points, and plugs but I am far from an expert. Hence me asking you guys ! :hail2:
 
Pinging in a 60's 427 on today's pump gas is something that timing isn't going to fix. Many 427's had 11-12+ to 1 comp ratios. And forget those off the shelf octane boosters, they don't work. You need REAL gas here, as in race fuel or AvGas. As for the problem you described, it's likely the points acting up, if it's still got em. Replace the points with a good electronic setup or a Pertronix unit. There may be tuning problems with the carbs too, especially if it's sat up a lot, but nothing a little TLC can't fix.
 
Pakrat said:
Sounds like a total lost cause and waste of money, can't be fixed, walk away quickly before you lose your shirt.

BTW, where in Seattle is it exactly? Maybe I can dispose of it for him, for a small fee of course. Oh heck, I'm feeling generous, I'll wave the fee.
:D I'll be neighborly and also offer my services too :nice: