I just finished building a a 347 stroker from an '86 Ford 5.0 Block, Edelbrock RPM Heads, Intake and Carb, I have a set of Cragar headers, the entire ignition is MSD 6A Box, Ready to Run Distributor, Wires. This is the problem, when i run the engine for about 5 minutes, the headers get really hot, I though it might be a blockage inthe exhaust, so I removed all pipes minus the Headers, Still having this issue, I then tried to set the timing, I used an adjustable light, So the Mark wasn't steady, so i decided to time it by ear. I have the timing to where it starts right away, shuts off fine, doesn't hesitate, or bogg down, ping when revved up. I then tried to adjust the carb Mixture screws, again runs ok, just the headers glowing whitehot. I don't think it would be the cooling system, I have all new hoses, engine was machined and built from the ground up, All new Alluminun Radiator. new Elec Cooling Fan. Put it this was the only part I reused was the Block, and that was been bored 30 over, machined true and flat, so that might as well be new as well.

has anyone had this issue with any of their engines. if so I need some help. I'm not too keen on running the engine with glowing white hot headers. not good.

Thanks for your help in advance.

Jose

 

An extreme rich condition can cause the headers to glow. In some cases, advancing the timing can take care of that. The most accurate way to adjust the air/fuel mixture is with a wideband O2, and then adjust timing after the fueling has been dialed in.

 

I agree with what Blurry94 had to say. A lot of folk will say this is caused by a lean condition, which is generally not true. One other thing to concern yourself with, is valve timing. Did you degree your cam in correctly?

 

A carb is a dumb piece of metal, you have to calibrate it for the motor.. and the ONLY way to do that is with a wideband O2 sensor and a lot of patience.

 

Valve timing and ignition timing 90% of the time these are tha causes. combustion is happening in the exh system. nothing in the cooling system will help.

 

Thanks for all the help. I was going in the general direction, just not on the right track. I truly do appreciate all of your help. I would love to do fine tuning, but it has been raining for a few days. I will give it a shot, and try it out. hopefully we'll be at the track soon. thanks. Joe

 

What ever happened to tuning by ear, or trial & error. why do so many want so much perfection???? go FI for that. instant gratification has gotten out of hand.