Sounds so much like a starving fuel issue. Electric choke being disconnected shouldn't effect driving after warmed up, unless the flap is closing and opening from lack of tension to keep it open. Your vacuum advance ok? Got a good line to some vacuum pressure to turn that distributor when accelerating, probably do, just a guess. Check for vacuum leaks around carb or any smog devices or intake manifold, another guess. Does 88 have a computer connection to check codes? If so maybe run it by a auto parts store and see if you can capture some codes. Air Cleaner good? PCV valve ok? Make sure your accelerator pump is spitting fuel when ya twist the throttle linkage. It maybe shooting too much or too little. I like to check at tail pipe for mixture settings, If fumes burn eyes real quick, its rich, if you feel just heat and no fume smell your ok or lean. Plugs will usually tell you this though. Crossed plug wires can do weird stuff also. Manual fuel pump replacement is simple, Don't loose the pushrod when you take the pump off though. The rod is about 2 inches long and it can fall quietly and not be noticed.