The effect of the initial stoichiometry variation (variation in Bi, Pb, Sr, Ca and Cu) on various structural and superconducting properties of Pb-doped Bi-based superconductor has been studied. The sample having the initial stoichiometry of (Bi1.8Pb0.4)Sr2Ca2.2Cu3O10 was found to give best structural and superconducting properties. The most important factors affecting J(c) in the samples were the type of impurity phases present in the sample, their amount and distribution in the superconducting matrix. Cu-rich stoichiometry enhanced the formation of 110 K phase, but large amounts of undesirable impurities present in the samples decreased J(c). The formation of 110 K phase and texturing of (001) planes in a sample depended on the period of heat treatment and stoichiometry.