hi
when i took my 460 out of the mercury it had a tube attatched to the back side of each of the heads one side to the other. when i started it (3 sec) steam or exsate smoke came out of both sides. I had no antifreeze in it cause i figured i'd start it just too see if it runs.
what is this tube for? Ohhh nooo i threw it away hope i can get around it or fabrciate something in place of it, really need help. thanks for your time.

 

I'll give it a shot. I believe what your describing is the fresh air tube. This is part of your smog equipment. The smog pump is piped to the fresh air tube which distributes the air to both heads. The fresh air is routed to each exhaust port to help aid in the combustion of unburned hydrocarbons exiting the exhaust. This helps reduce smog emissions and you will need it to pass a smog test. You can probably find a tube at a wrecking yard or a dealer. If you have a vehicle that is used for off road only or that is smog excempt, you don't need it. Just tap the holes and plug'em with pipe plugs.

 

hi
thanks, i'll just plug them then.

 

if it is just emissions tube than why does so much smoke come out of them. i found it's not any thing to do with coolant because i put coolant in it finally and nothing came out of the holes but a ton of smoke or steam. it takes about 10-15 secs for it to start smoking but it gets wore and wors as i let it run. maybe it's just crap burning out of it from the rebuild? more help please

 

[updated:LAST EDITED ON 08-Jan-03 AT 02:23 AM (EST)]fordlowboy, If I'm getting you right, your talking about the thermactor ports on the back of the heads. It is exhaust thats coming out of them. Yes fresh air was pumped into them through a steel crossover pipe, via a one way valve ( thermactor valve ) at one time. You can go to your local favorite parts store and ask for steel cap plug for the thermactor ports on the heads.

These are plugs you can tap in with a small hammer and a short socket in the inside diameter of the plug. No hassle, just tap them in.

I will send you an e-mail.