Won't Idle

Discussion in 'The Venerable Q-Jet' started by rdj59, Oct 10, 2004.

  1. rdj59

    rdj59 It's like sex on ice

    we just put togather a 72 350 buick and it won't idle below 1500. it has a ta 310 cam and ta roller timing chain. the qjet i took off is from an 80 chevy van. Here is the number i got off the carb 17083226. it seems to be running lean. it also will back fire through the carb and heats up rather quickly. i bought roe's book. which way do i turn the screws to make it richer, it looks like they are screwed all the way in now.
     
  2. Smartin

    Smartin antiqueautomotiveservice.com Staff Member

    If they're screwed all the way in, then it shouldn't run hardly at all.

    Screw them in until they JUST bottom out. Then back them out 2 full turns. This will give you a good starting point for adjustment. You should get a vacuum guage and adjust them until you get the most vacuum you can possibly get.

    Truthfully, I think you should scrap the qjet from the 80's and get a period correct carb....but if you can make this one work, more power to ya!:TU:
     
  3. GStage1

    GStage1 Always looking for parts!

    Your throttle shafts could have excessive play causing vacuum leaks.
    Disconnect all vacuum from the intake and carb and see if you still have the problem. If so, you carb is bad. If you need an original, I have a nice one from a 73 LeSabre. I have it listed in the parts for sale section. $49 + ship.
    It has been rebuilt before and there is no play in the throttle shafts.
     

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