Questions for you wrench turners

matt s

Explorer
So I finally have some free time and am trying to get my engine running in top form. I have begun tuning it up, had the carb off today and rejetted, fixed/replaced vacuum lines, cleaned it up etc. The truck is running fine (better after todays work), but fine is not necessarily right or best.

So my questions. I'll do my best to make sure you understand what I am asking about.

Question 1, Carb vs. Timing: As I tune the carb will this effect the timing. Conversely does changing the timing effect the carb tuning? I understand that one will not physically change the settings of the other, but rather will it change what the settings should be?

For instance, I now have my carb set where I think it is correct. I plan on checking my timing (have to borrow a timing light tomorrow). If I need to change the timing will the adjustments I made to the carb still be the correct ones?

On the other hand, had I started with the timing, could the timing readings be effected by the proper or improper adjustment of the carb?

Question 2, Lithium Grease: I was going to climb underneath and grease all my zerts (front end, drive line, etc.). I ran out of my standard grease, but I happen to have tube of white lithium grease. Any reason not to use it for this?

Question 3, Distributor: obviously it's working to some degree as the truck runs, but is there any way to know that it is working properly? Is there any test (beyond a crappy running engine) to let me know that status.


I didn't want to limit this to only the full sized crowd, but it seemed like it did not belong in fireside chat. Regardless, thanks in advance for the help.
 
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crawler#976

Expedition Leader
Carburetor! Distributor! Timing Light!

It's been a few years since I even thought about those critters...

First off, if it's an old school point/rotor setup, upgrade it to an HEI. The HEI system is soooooooo much better than the old type, and they are highly reliable as well. Retrofit kits or a replacement distributors are available for almost any make or model. Check out Summit Racing - if they don't have it, it ain't made...

Question 1, Carb vs. Timing: No

Question 2, Lithium Grease: As long as it's a NLGI Grades 2 or 3 it should be fine.

Question 3, Distributor: There are two types of old school distributors, vacuum advance and mechanical advance. I dunno what you have...

http://www.gofastforless.com/ignition/advance.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ignition_timing
 

matt s

Explorer
Thanks, I should have stated it's a Chevy hei distributor with vacuum advance.

Good links BTW. The first one is very informative.
 
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