Funny how stupid mistakes repeat themselves occasionally.
Spent all sorts of time making sure engine timing was set after re-assembly. Dumb thing is, I didn't tighten distributor bolt sufficiantly after adjusting timing. Needless to say, timing creeped into left field as the car was driven. DUUUHHH!!!
All better now! Runs like a scalded dog! Even starts hot.
Sorry for the run around ya'll, but I sure got lots of good advice for any future problems.
Maybe I'll do a Lexus next, can't be any more mystical than this Pontiac!