[68 P.O.S.]

First, have you verified top dead center with your balancer/zero timing mark?

Your timing sounds right on; 36 total is perfect. All in at 3200 rpm isn't bad. 2800-3000 may be a little better, but nothing of concern. You said the distributor is "calibrated to 24 degrees at 3000 RPM per the build specs and for street applications". Does that mean the mechanical advance is 24 degrees? How many degrees does the vacuum advance provide?

Do you still have the manual for the carb? You need it to setup the carb up right and calibrate it. You're gonna have to open your carb and set the float levels. They're always off out the box due to shipping and whatever. Since you have 20" vacuum, your step up springs should be the plain silver ones that come in the cal kit. Silver is the strongest/stiffest set.

What cam and specs? Fuel pump install ok? Any degraded or twisted fuel lines? Sounds like you have enough fuel pressure. Hmmmm.....