replaced headgasket and stuff - weird problem

[dreamchasin]

I posted this on e30tech now here, trying to get answers from several people who contribute so i'll copy and paste what i posted there.

my head gasket blew so i ordered a timing belt, water pump, valve cover gasket, head bolts, head gasket. the usual what you need to do it.

so i just got done putting everything together. motor, body panels everything. i go to take it for a test drive, start it up and it has this erratic idle then shuts off. i had the battery off for days until tonight but i doubt that has anything to do with it. started it up again crazy smoke was coming from the engine but i assume that was from a drop of oil that spilled and some coolant that spilled. that start up i kept it going by tapping the gas just a little bit to keep it running. took it for a drive didn't beat it at all being as its a new gasket and all that jazz. had it to about 60 on a side road that isnt long. when i shift the RPMs drop crazy fast.

i lined up the timing right when i did it. so im trying to rule that out. from what im thinking its a crazy vacuum leak. but where? i don't want to drive momma dukes' automatic toyota paseo anymore.

before the headgasket it was fine with idle and driving. just the head gasket was blown. is there any possible way it could be plugs?

any insight you have i'm down to listen.

[416stroker]

It could be fouled plugs. Did it smoke the whole time? If it is you need to get your head pressure tested and fluxed.

[White325is]

Its loose or missing intake mani nuts. :)

[dreamchasin]

Its loose or missing intake mani nuts. :)

you so smart mike.

[jrdeamicis]

Brake parts cleaner will help you find any vaccumm leak. Its cheap and easy.

[kishg]

did you adjust valves? smoke is from the manifold most likely. re-tighten those bolts to spec.