Tuning Up a New Question

[Antelope]

I just dropped in a remany'ed engine and would like some good info on where to start with tuning it up primarily, electric choke, idle etc...

[Lindel]

The first place to start is with engine timing. Make sure that your timing, with the engine at idle, and warmed up, is at 12* BTDC, with the vacuum advance pulled from the dist, and plugged.

Next place would be the overall condition of the plugs, cap and rotor. For a rebuild, all should be brand new, with the spark plugs of your choice. If the ignition is stock, set the plug gap at .035", if you've upgraded to TFI, or aftermarket, then bump the gap to .040", or .045". Are the plug wires in good shape? If not, then change them now. The last stop would be the carburetor, unless it's keeping the engine from starting/running. Follow the tech article by Mike Baxter, on adjusting the 2150 carb, and you should be in good shape.

Your new engine WILL burn a little oil, be very tight, and might run hot for the better part of 5000 miles, until the rings set. After that, the mpg should come up (strictly a relative term, you understand), oil consumption should go down, and life will be good, for the moment ;)

[Antelope]

Thanks Lindel,
I noticed you answered my timing question after this one so I assume I should ignore the 12* BTDC and go with 19*.

[Lindel]

Yup, I was basing the 12* on my 87 GW that I had. Go with the emissions sticker.