One cylinder misfire and weird power balance results?

I would go back and check all the positive and ground cable connections. You could also put a jumper cable across the starter solenoid when it acts up and see if anything changes. I would also load test the battery. If all is well change the starter.

As for as the carb. if the throttle shafts are worn out I would look for another one with good shafts to rebuild. You can likely rob good parts from the old one also to cut costs.

I wouldn't waste my time on a used carb unless you can see it run before you buy it. Spend the $300 and get a new one you won't regret it. There is absolutely NOTHING more aggravating than trying to fix a P.O.S. carb that you probably can't fix. Smoothness and reliability is priceless. Basic Holley's and Edelbrock's are both in the low 300's. Glad you figured it out have fun with it.

As for the starting. Try lowering the timing a few degrees see how the hot start is then.

The timing is now 2 degrees under where it says on the label and it didnt make a difference. Sheesh no telling but i want to know if the starter might still be useable. for $50 it isn't worth more headache.

Thanks I am going to replace with another vacuum secondary 4bbl whenever i get a new intake manifold and exhaust to match the CFM. for now this motorcraft with so low miles will get the truck moving and doing some shake down runs! thanks all i'll come back when its time to match a carb and intake to this!

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Holley-Carburetor-GR-4585B-X11-10959-9834-3-0173-11081-/141877685308 Not saying you should get this particular one but, the List #9834 is about the best stock Holley for a stock automatic 460 on top of a Edelbrock Performer intake if you have to have an aluminum. Just my opinion.

What did I win?