Optimizing engine performance?
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Joined: Oct 2009
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Optimizing engine performance?
I have a '69 360 that runs well, but would like to take it another step.
What are some of the things i can do to get the best performance and mileage from this 360 that i believe was rebuilt in the '90s and cared for by its previous owner.
It is running a petronix ignition (1st gen), but other than that it is completlely stock.
Does the sparkplug gap change if you are using a Pertronix setup?
Is there a way to know if the carburetor is working efficiently?
How do i know if the vaccuum advance is working properly?
This is what happens when you run out of things to work on or replace on these great trucks.
What are some of the things i can do to get the best performance and mileage from this 360 that i believe was rebuilt in the '90s and cared for by its previous owner.
It is running a petronix ignition (1st gen), but other than that it is completlely stock.
Does the sparkplug gap change if you are using a Pertronix setup?
Is there a way to know if the carburetor is working efficiently?
How do i know if the vaccuum advance is working properly?
This is what happens when you run out of things to work on or replace on these great trucks.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 1,396
Likes: 4
From: Cupertino
1) .035 on the plugs will work just fine.
2) The color and condition of the plugs tells you a lot about the health of the engine. They should be colored evenly a greyish-brown. Black is excessive oil consumption, white is a lean condition which can burn valves.
3) A quick check on the vacuum advance is to pull the distributor cap and suck on the vacuum line to the carb. The plate in the distributor should move and hold place until you release vacuum.
2) The color and condition of the plugs tells you a lot about the health of the engine. They should be colored evenly a greyish-brown. Black is excessive oil consumption, white is a lean condition which can burn valves.
3) A quick check on the vacuum advance is to pull the distributor cap and suck on the vacuum line to the carb. The plate in the distributor should move and hold place until you release vacuum.
Post Fiend
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 14,325
Likes: 14
From: Island Southeast Alaska
4 BBL Carb & intake headers dual exhaust are some bolt mods that help and work well.
Does the sparkplug gap change if you are using a Pertronix setup?: Nope I don't think so
Is there a way to know if the carburetor is working efficiently?: It could prolly use a professional tune and timing checked. But you are gonna replace it with a 4 BBL right?
How do i know if the vacuum advance is working properly?: If it wasn't it would run like crap when accelerating. Changing the spark curve can help dial the engine in better as well. Either change the springs or if equipped turn the screw in the vacuum line hole on the Vacuum module
Does the sparkplug gap change if you are using a Pertronix setup?: Nope I don't think so
Is there a way to know if the carburetor is working efficiently?: It could prolly use a professional tune and timing checked. But you are gonna replace it with a 4 BBL right?
How do i know if the vacuum advance is working properly?: If it wasn't it would run like crap when accelerating. Changing the spark curve can help dial the engine in better as well. Either change the springs or if equipped turn the screw in the vacuum line hole on the Vacuum module
