A package arrived today by UPS. It was the VDO boost gauge I ordered
over the internet. I found it on the net for $30 as opposed to $45 that
NAPA wanted for it and it would still have to be ordered. I also ordered
a tubing kit which included the fittings to mount it to the Judson
intake manifold. I also ordered a black mounting bracket that mounted
nicely to the existing screw below the dash that fastens the dash
support to the frame, so no new holes. Placement is perfect.
It took about 30 minutes to install the gauge and pipe it. Super
easy. At the same time I decided to check my timing (static method) as
explained in the Haynes manual. It turned out to be retarded a few
degrees and I adjusted it accordingly (5 deg. BTDC). I then returned
the accelerator linkage wire to the original hole (there is only two)
which is the "normal" position for the link. I loaded my 11 year old
son in the car for the test drive. Two observations, the timing
adjustment helped with the engine temperature and if the gauge is
correct I am only getting 3 PSI boost. There is boost only when your
foot is really in it. At idle the gauge reads 20 Hg on the opposite
side and at speed it is close to "0".
Granted, the air temp was around 75F, but at no time, even at long
traffic lights, did the water temp go above 195F! The throttle response
is improved by going back to the normal position on the accelerator
linkage. I still have to find the right spring for the throttle return
though. If it is too light, the throttle won't go all the way back to
idle. It "sticks" at 2000 rpm or so until you blip the gas pedal and
then drops to the adjusted 1000 rpm. I have a large spring attached to
the throttle lever of the carb and the other end to the triangular
cutout of the inner fender gusset. It is a 7 inch spring, but it is a
little stiff. If I can find an 8 inch spring with just a little less
tension, it would be much better. So the search goes on.
All in all it was a very enjoyable ride. Since I spent all day
Sunday using Meguire's paint cleaner, polish and Gold Class wax, the car
looks great too. An older bearded gentleman shadowed me for a couple of
lights and finally got up next to me at the third stop light and asked
what year it was. I told him and he told me he had a '59 with a Judson
also back "then". He also said he remembered when he could get
transmissions for $65.00 out of the junk yard. The good old days.
Anyway just wondering if anyone else has a boost gauge and what they are
reading on theirs. Hardly seems worth the effort for 3 PSI. Some
"Works" intake manifolds and 1 1/2" S.U. carbs might do the same thing.
Mike MacLean Supercharged 60 Sprite
|