Thanks porterdog, I PM'ed you.

have you checked the rubber intake where maf fits, mine popped off after a backfire, it looked like it was where it should be but wasnt

that is actually a really good suggestion. One that I had thought about making before but it seems awful simple. I too actually had a massive vacuum leak at this juncture but it was almost unnoticeable until I stuck my head in the engine bay. One important note is that he is referring to the AFM not the MAF as in later cars.

Thanks to all for your help and offer to help. Found the issue......changed the plug wires and she runs fine.