84 K5 305 won't stay idling

[HairyK5]

HELP!!!, yesterday I changed the valve cover gaskets on my 84 K5 with a 305. While working on the gaskets I noticed the vacuum hoses were dry rotted and had broken loose from most of their connections. I also noticed that many had previously been plugged and were no longer attached to anything. I got the gaskets replaced and started the truck to flush out the radiator. The motor starts but won't idle unless the throttle is constantly used.
I just finished installing a 6" lift (new springs, shocks, drive shafts, etc.) along with a new rear axle, and new 36" IROK tires. I'd really like to drive it.
Seems like I take one step forward and two steps back. Can anyone help, please. Is it possible to remove the vacuum hoses or are there some that are required to make it run (and stay running)?
Thanks

 

[Hubnut]

Sounds like you've some serious vacuum leaks somewhere. Make sure that there aren't any free hoses sucking air off the carbureter.

 

[dominic]

fix your vacuum leaks and adjust your carb idle screw until it runs good,maybe check timing.

 

[HairyK5]

We seemingly found the vacuum leak and plugged it up, as the truck now stays idling. Only problem is it idles at a couple thousand rpm in neutral. When the transmission is in gear the idle drops to normal but as soon as it's in park or neutral and the thing races like a bitch. I've read through the Haynes about it and tried the suggestions. I'm frustrated with the whole thing. I don't know what else I've missed. I'm about to look in the distributor to see if the vacuum advance is stuck (it was suggested). But, I don't know what effect it will have - seems that would only affect how well or crappy it ran, not idled.