fuel pressure problems

[Jim Strickland <ihaveanaccount@xxxx>]

(formerly subject: frequency valve again)

When I fixed the wires to the fuel pressure regulator and hooked the vaccuum
hoses back up, the engine ran richer. I've been turning and turning the CO
screw closed, but when it reaches a point where it's not spewing black smoke
anymore, the car will not idle or run at all below 4000RPM.

I can not 'take it out for a drive'... the engine does not run well enough
by itself...

Is there a way I can ensure the spark advance is working/getting vaccuum? 
Besides checking timing- of course... I'm pretty sure my timing plate is not
stock, and am unsure of it's usefulness...

I just replaced the O2 sensor- I was uncertain of the old one's condition,
and figured it needed to be changed anyway...