Hey Ed,

No question is dumb...we all find ourselves needing some assistance when we've exhuasted everything we can think of.

So, is the problem that it just won't start or that you're not getting any spark? Let's assume that you mean you've got no spark. There's only one thing to consider...the ignition system (i.e.: distributor and coil). Since this is out of a late model vehicle, it's probably HEI. In any case, have you tried to pull a spark plug, connect the plug wire, and set the spark plug on the engine to see if you get any spark when you crank it? If you are not getting spark, you're choices are:

1.) No power to the distributor
2.) Bad HEI module (not triggering the spark to the coil)
3.) Bad coil

Fortunately, on HEI, there is only one power wire. If you suspect a bad connection or blown fuse, hot wire the "BAT" or "PWR" connection on the distributor directly to your battery. If you then get spark, you know it's a bad wire going to the distributor. If still no spark, borrow your neighbors distributor out of their chevy (optional if you want to tell them or not )and try again.

If you are getting spark, it's a different story...post again and we can try to help.

tj