72 Charger idling issues

[Charger72SE]

I made a similar post yesterday about pulling the gas tank to clean but I would like to make sure that this is actually the source of the issue... whenever I start the car it seems to be idling at an unusually high rpm it sounds a lot higher pitch at idle and when I put it into gear the car jolts very hard. I also installed a brand new fuel filter and even after about 30 seconds of idling after installation the filter seems to be filling with a dark sludge and it still sounds very high pitched compared to its normally very low and throaty gurgling idle sound. Im pretty lost here and out of ideas can anybody help? The engine is a small block 360 and has ran pretty well in the past with no real issues as this is a fairly recent problem. It also has overheated the past 2 times I have taken most likely because it has no radiator overflow and spits out coolant at high temperatures (I currently have one I am going to put on) but the strange idle started before the overheating problem and I am unsure if they are related. Any help would be most appreciated!

 

[Moms68]

Is the choke operating properly?

 

[T2R9]

If the fuel filter is filling up with crap so is the carb. Time to get the fuel system cleaned out.

 

[Charger72SE]

Is the choke operating properly?

a bit embarrassed to say but I'm not exactly sure how to check if the choke is operating correctly.... How would I go about doing so?

 

[Charger72SE]

If the fuel filter is filling up with crap so is the carb. Time to get the fuel system cleaned out.

That was what I was sort of thinking. Is that something I can do myself or would I need to have a professional do it?

 

[T2R9]

That was what I was sort of thinking. Is that something I can do myself or would I need to have a professional do it?

Start with the tank like in the other post. When its out pull the filter and blow the line out. The carb will need to be cleaned. Kits are readily available and pretty straight forward.

 

[Charger72SE]

Start with the tank like in the other post. When its out pull the filter and blow the line out. The carb will need to be cleaned. Kits are readily available and pretty straight forward.

Okay great!! Thanks a ton!! I will absolutely get on that as soon as possible.

 

[Moms68]

a bit embarrassed to say but I'm not exactly sure how to check if the choke is operating correctly.... How would I go about doing so?

it’s fairly straight forward but the butterfly has to move freely. If the fuel is gunked up it could be sticking so you may need carb and choke cleaner. There are easy adjustments to put more tension on the force it takes to open. Depending on the style it could be electrical or mechanical. Best to get a factory service manual for your car. Lot’s of info to help maintain your car.

 

[Charger72SE]

it’s fairly straight forward but the butterfly has to move freely. If the fuel is gunked up it could be sticking so you may need carb and choke cleaner. There are easy adjustments to put more tension on the force it takes to open. Depending on the style it could be electrical or mechanical. Best to get a factory service manual for your car. Lot’s of info to help maintain your car.

Ah okay I didn't even think of that as a potential issue but it does make quite a bit of sense now.. I appreciate the help!!

 

[MoparLeo]

Download the Service Manual first. A high speed problem is not going to happen with a duirty fuel system. If anything it would be the opposite. More fuel would only cause a high rpm surge if the timing advanced as well/. Otherwise a bog and stall. Now running lean will cause the problems you describe and can make the engine run hot.
Get out the spray bottle with only water in it and start the engine. Now spray around the bottom and base of the carb. If no effect? continue at any vacuum hose connections and then at the intake manifold to cylinder head juncture. Any change in rpm is what you are looking for.