I've built 2 12A's for my own use, and they both started easily in the garage, with the starter motor...so I (respectfully-not trying to raise an argument) would not take it for a drag.
I'll repeat what I said earlier--
-The intake huffing sounds like you have the #1 and # 2 wired backwards (it's easy to do if you are rushing). Double check that L1 distributer terminal is connected to the lower front spark plug, L2 is connected to the lower rear spark plug, T1 to the upper front, and T2 to the lower front.)
-Fresh, new spark plugs. I like the BUR9EQP plugs that mazda comp recommends. fresh new Stock plugs will also work, but I don't like racing on them.
-In light of the carburator problem you described, I highly suspect the carburator is your culprit, not the ignition or your rebuilt motor. See if you can borrow a carb from a running car.
-Freshly charged battery helps too!
Silly errors that happen when rebuilding a carb:
-swapping primary and secondary jets.
-forgot to install or loose jets.
-forget to plug a smog device hole (big vacuum leak)
-loose needle and seat.
Lastly, it sounds counter intuitive, but when I start a stone cold motor, I give it 6 to 8 full pumps on the gas before I try to start it. If it fails to start (3 times in 10 years), I end up with dripping wet plugs just like you have described. (When I get the accelerator pump properly adjusted --so it doesn't hesitate when I agressively open the throttle in 3rd gear-- it does not put in enough fuel to start a cold motor with the choke removed.)
One last parting thought...On a Mazda distributer cap, 1 of the 2 coil terminals is aluminum, (the other is brass). Aluminum oxide is an electrical insulator. If you see any corrosion on that 1 aluminum terminal, replace both the distributer cap and the wire that goes to it.
Good luck!
Tak
ITA #29
SFR SCCA