Distributor/Timing Problems

[ChevyC102007]

Ok well I figured after 30 years the original HEI in my 1980 Chevy was due for an overhaul/replacement. So I purchased a Mallory unit to replace it, after installing it I noticed that it didn't seem to be working correctly (Id move the distributor towards the firewall and it retarded the timing instead of advancing it, moving back towards the carb it would advance it ).

After looking at the product info online and talking with my "tech support" AKA my dad, i did some more digging, not only was the balancer timing mark off (due to a bad balancer) but the timing chain itself was worn.

Replaced timing chain with a double roller from Cloyes with 4 key ways, I installed it "straight up" according to the diagram, replaced the balancer and finished buttoning it all back up.

Now back to the distributor got it put in and truck seemed to be running fine, that was about 4 months ago. Now when I accelerate I can hear it popping back through the carb (EDL-1406) and I have no power, Ive tried to set the timing but the aforementioned advance/retard confussion makes it hard to do.

I installed the chain as directed, I rechecked the dizzy to make sure I got it in on No.1, everything checks out. Ive put in Cloyes double chains before with no problems.

Which brings me to the question.

Does anyone have any experience with CFR Performance distributors? Are they worth the $70.00 price tag from Amazon or am I better off switching the Mallory to a MSD Street Fire?

Sorry so long just wanted to try and make sure I explained the problem as best as I could. Just wanna be able to drive it to and from work.