Philip,
Just a side not regarding tappet clearance. While "loud" MAY mean loose, it
also affects cam timing.... or more accurately, the point at which valves
opens. In this case it is actually delaying (retarding) valve opening. Which
adds to potential top speed but reduces acceleration. Inversely, less clearance
works just the opposite; increases acceleration, reduces top end.
WFO Herb
Keep the sticky side down!
Philip Hubbard wrote:
> Hello Gang,
>
> Another big thank you to all the kind souls on this list for advice given
> on my erratic idle problem.
>
> I think there is real progress to report!
>
> Did two things today and one or both made a big difference:
>
> Intake Manifold:
>
> Took intake manifold off and sanded it down on a piece of glass to make
> sure it was even. Didn't get it perfect, but I figured this shouldn't need
> brain surgery precision and it was much better than when I started. Also
> put on a new (second time in weeks) gasket and did NOT use the blue goop.
> Also, treated Arioch to new manifold studs, spacer washers and brass nuts.
>
> Result - no huge surge when I spray carb cleaner at the area where the
> intake manifold meets the head.
>
> Carburetors:
>
> Replaced throttle shafts - well, at least on one side. I hadn't felt any
> wiggle there when I checked earlier, but when I took it out the front
> carb's shaft was severely worn down. I say I replaced only one, because
> the other shaft I got from VB was not of the same length and I couldn't use
> it. Sheesh. Anyway, the other shaft wasn't notched and worn down like the
> other.
>
> Put it all back together and I got a pretty even idle - no surging to 2500
> and down to 500 or dieing!!!!
>
> Remaining issues:
> I can't get it to idle lower than 1500 no matter how far I turn the idle
> screws. Did I put something back together wrong when I replaced the shafts?
>
> Loud tappets - at least it seems to be coming from under the valve cover.
> Loud is just annoying, right? Means they are a little loose? I did adjust
> them cold this last time.
>
> Thanks for the help everyone. It's almost back on the road!
>
> Philip
> 1974 Damask Red Midget - Arioch, Lord of Chaos
> 1960 BRG Bugeye Sprite - First up for restoration
> 1973 Damask Red Midget - Project car for sale
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