Actually, we need to give the engine what it wants with timing. Twenty is a little high, but going back to 10 is likely too much retard. Retarded timing will cause the engine to run hot, be down on power, and generally be unhappy. If you have an auto trans, the RPM drop going into gear should be...
The residual valve is only needed for the rear drum brakes. It simply keeps a little pressure on the rear wheel cylinders to prevent them from fully retracting after braking. This improves the pedal feel, but many have removed the valve without problems. Just ensure the rear brake shoes are...
Don't forget to check the plugs too. The AFR gauge setup is great for seeing how changes to your carb & timing affect things but the plugs will tell the real story.
Chrysler did not spend a penny more on better gauge wire on our old girls. Between the multi connector at the bottom of the steering column and the bulkhead connector, these are the most common trouble spots. If you don't already have a good sized bypass wire from the alternator to the starter...
The only issue you may have is if you currently have an original radiator and then go to aftermarket. The aftermarket radiators do not fit like original. The way the brackets are welded on pushes the radiator closer to the engine. You may have clearance issues that you should be aware of.
Any shop can have a problem with a new engine even with taking meticulous care. If there is a local shop that has a great reputation that is current, then that could be a real plus. Many shops had a great reputation but the skilled guys are getting older, retiring, etc. and those taking their...
I had mufflers on my 440 Charger that were similar to the old thrush hush... and they were too loud. I removed them and went with what was then the sonic turbo's. Nice and quiet, and best of all I could actually hear my engine sing when the secondaries opened! I just really don't like not being...
The TTI fitment is very good on the driver side, but still close to the fenderwell on the passenger side. You will need to get the smaller, high torque starter for TTI or Dougs headers. Spark plug access is very easy on the driver side but still a bit challenging for the passenger side. I am...
I don't believe you can go any lower than 3.54 in your Dana. I installed a Strange (Dana) I got from Cass @ Dr Diff into my 72 Challenger. At that time Strange was offering a 3.23 gear so I got that. From the factory the Dana did not go lower than 3.54.
Yes! I would advance the timing until the engine idle stops increasing, then back the timing down a little. That is a good place to start. Most engines I've worked on the initial timing ends up being 15 to 18. It's amazing how the engine will like the additional timing!
That comment borders on blasphemy! Yeah, yeah I know Ma Mopar put those QJ's on some vehicles (i.e. trucks) in the 80's. They were cheap so likely that's why. Ugh.
Many years ago I was racing a camaro and when I floored the pedal I heard a "kapow" from the engine and it died. Towed it to the base auto hobby shop and found the nylon timing gear had sheared. Pump screen and pan was full of nylon. Definitely the Achilles heel of our OE style classic engines!