Gigi rides again - with some issues

[Don Frelier]

Well your cam timing may not be correct if you didn't degree the cam. And 383s aren't real tolerant with a somewhat performance cam.

You're going to need a pretty good initial advance with that set-up and probably a higher stall converter.

Try 20 degrees initial and maybe go higher.
I would also try full manifold vacuum on the advance. But you'll likely need to restrict the mechanical.

You should be able to get it to idle at 650-700 with some tuning.

Do your other tests you mentioned like pulling a plug wire at a time and checking the plugs.
I've seen bad spark plugs right out of the box.

 

[RemCharger]

Agreed^^^ that's a good sized cam for the low compression, will need more advance at idle..and it's a 78 440

 

[subforry]

Ignition advance is in the 18-22 range. I think the mechanical advance springs are weak and kicking in just over 1000rpm (my understanding is 1500rpm or more would be better).

Vac advance is ported, but I can run manifold vac.

Currently no pinging or kick back on hot restart, also pulls well from cruise.

I hope to run more test Friday and Sat. Thanks for the support.

 

[Don Frelier]

Agreed^^^ that's a good sized cam for the low compression, will need more advance at idle..and it's a 78 440

Sorry when I see a picture of that one I immediately associated it with mine.

 

[subforry]

What is up with these spark plugs? This is even bank, 8, 6, 4, 2. I pulled 7 and it looks like other 3. There could have been manifold vacuum leak but wouldn't that make the plug lean? The wire to the distributor could have been loose. What else should I be checking? Again this is a junk yard engine, so a compression test?

These are Autolite 3923. It has Edlebrock heads.

I did pull each plug wire when the engine was running. For me, it was inconclusive.

The float level is 7/16 without the gasket, so a little high.

The even bank valve train looks good. The push rods spin, the throw looks all about the same, the looseness of the rods seems about the same.

My plan is to pull the remaining 3 plugs. Clean plug 4 and swap with another. Lower the floats. Reassemble. Focus on #4 plug wire, maybe swap with a left over wire.

 

[Don Frelier]

I am Not an autolite fan...

 

[subforry]

I am Not an autolite fan...

I am about to buy some new plugs and would be happy for a recommendation.