shocking problem

[thump16]

Okay, My starter went out on the truck this weekend so i replaced it with a stock one which is two sizes bigger than the mini that was on it. So it sits about a 16th of an inch away from the header. I also rerouted all the plug wires because it has hedman long tube headers.
Well today I fired her up to go to work and I get this loud thudding noise coming up from the carb/intake manifold when I gassed it. So I start checking all the wires and I put my hand on the dist cap and I get zapped. It is an MSD set up with remote coil. Should I check for a cracked cap or is it a deeper problem. It only sputters if I go past a certain rpm range or try to drive it.


Sledge

[thump16]

Are my questions too confusing. I have asked several questions on this site and have gotten no help except from a select few. Yes i have used the search button but it would be nice to hear from the experts or truck owners having been through this type of problem.

[1984 swb chevy]

You could check your cap for cracks but it sounds like the shock you got was from a plug wire. Make sure your wires are in good condition around the boot. I have had a cracked cap but I only had running problems when it was wet out.

[James McClure]

Thump: I'm thinking it didn't do this before the starter change right? OK then. You did something to cause it. Most likely is you cracked\broke a spark plug boot at the cap during the re route process. Look at the wires real good 1 at a time. If you find anything, even on only 1 wire, replace them all with GM wires. I usually spray the crap out of them with silicone spray before they go in and after I'm done. If you find a wire with an open circut in it, replace the rotor also especially if it's the large distributor. An open wire causes a voltage spike that shoots a microscopic hole right thru the rotor. You can't see the hole, but it will be a real white spot near the pin on the bottom of the rotor at center. jim

[thump16]

Thanks for the replies. I noticed a slight hesitation while giving it gas and a slight knock during cold starts but yes it didn't start acting crazy until after the starter install. The wires are MSD also but I have two other sets in the garage.
I love this truck but I am slowly realizing that the previous owner put it together in a hurry and it's falling apart on me.
I won't be able to work on it this week because my wife has just started having contractions (Daughter). We will be on our way to the hospital in a few hours. I will do some work on the truck this this weekend if I have time.
Have a great day.

I forgot to mention that the PO was kind enough to refund me a reasonable amount to cover the problems that have come up..

[slug]

Congrats On The Lil One

[thump16]

Thank you. This is my third child. I have a thirteen year old son and daughter that are a couple of great kids.

Sledge.