The 318 in your old Polara just doesn't want to maintain a tune, even with new plugs, points, a carb kit, and everything else you can thing of. Your car may need a new Dodge timing chain. A newer Aries showing the same symptoms may need a new Dodge timing belt. Of course, if you're driving your newer Dodge and the engine simply quits running, that could be a sign that the Dodge timing belt snapped. Whether your car uses a Dodge timing chain or a Dodge timing belt, the timing setup is essential to ensuring the valves open and close at the exact right moment. A loose, worn Dodge timing chain will permit the valves to open too late for effective combustion, while a broken Dodge timing belt won't let the valves open at all. Either way, you're going to need a new Dodge timing belt or Dodge timing chain. On older engines like the 318 we mentioned earlier, the camshaft is located fairly close to the crankshaft. That makes a Dodge timing chain the most reliable method for opening and closing the valves. However, overhead cam engines like the ubiquitous K-car motor, have longer distances between the cam and crank making a Dodge timing belt a more attractive solution. A Dodge timing belt runs quieter and is easier to keep from flailing about inside the timing cover, which is why it's selected for most OHC Dodge applications. When you're replacing a Dodge timing belt, you may also want to replace the belt tensioner that ensures the belt remains tight at all times. Likewise, it would be a false economy to replace a Dodge timing chain without also replacing the timing gears. Make sure you order all the components you need for a full Dodge timing chain or Dodge timing belt replacement and order them here to save a significant amount of money over retail. You'll get the same premium Dodge timing belt or Dodge timing chain you would at the dealership at half the price, so order today.