I kept tinkering with the engine today. I tried a few more settings on the carburetor jets, and re-adjusted the fast idle cam screw. I’ve also noticed that slightly rotating the distributor to change the ignition timing has a big difference on the idle performance. Technically I should be timing my 009 distributor to 30 degrees after top dead center (TDC) with a timing light at full RPMs, but those lights are like $50… instead I’ll adjust this thing VW style by turning it clockwise/ counter-clockwise as the engine is running until the engine sounds the best.
I’ve got it running fairly well, and it will stay idling if I give it a push or two of gas. Still dies if I’m driving and come to a stop, but I’m getting better at catching it before it turns completely off. I was also able to confirm that the speedo is working – Sweet! I think I am at a point where I can’t keep tinkering with one thing or another on the engine – I’m going to do another full tune-up (and replace the plugs & points), and go from there. Also, I’ve noticed that one of the pushrod tubes is leaking more than it was before – they sell spring loaded replacements that can be installed w/o pulling the engine – I’ll look into getting that project done sooner than later.
Happy Labor Day!
