Fran;

Do you mean to say you installed the Pertronix and didn't check and adjust timing before starting attempts???...if it doesn't say to do this in their installation instructions, shame on them!!

Don't take this wrong, but if you didn't know, or at least consider this should be done, I guess we can write it of to inexperience, but if that's the case, I'm thinking you shouldn't be undertaking such a job without checking installation instructions or asking about it here...

I suggest you familiarize yourself with the Static Timing Procedure (applies in principle and practically to elec ign conversions): http://www.sw-em.com/Volvo%20Ignition%20from%20Scratch.htm#Static%20Timing

Cheers