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Old Jun 28, 2007 | 01:51 PM
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Default low vacuum??

what should the vacuum be for a sbc? my car is probably at like 12-13 hg at idle, but i was told it needs to be atleast 20 hg. if it needs to be higher, how can i tune my engine to get more vacuum?
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Old Jun 28, 2007 | 03:28 PM
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A stock engine should be higher. I can't say how high, but maybe 15-20"? Your cam, timing and carb settings all effect vacuum. Give some details and you will get more answers.

Mine is at 12-13 with a xe268 and 1.6 rockers, timing at 17 initial.

Last edited by kevinator80; Jun 28, 2007 at 03:39 PM.
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Old Jun 28, 2007 | 04:29 PM
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I just checked mine yesterday. It showed 17 - 18hg at idle. Timing is set at 12 initial. I tried to adjust it higher, but could not get anymore.

Good luck,
Dino
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Old Jun 28, 2007 | 04:32 PM
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Originally Posted by 1stC3Vette
I just checked mine yesterday. It showed 17 - 18hg at idle. Timing is set at 12 initial. I tried to adjust it higher, but could not get anymore.

Good luck,
Dino
i'm not sure what my timing is set at, but here's what i have.

stock l-82 heads 1.94"/1.50"
224/234 cam
performer intake and 600 cfm carb
the shortblock itself is a crate engine gm goodwrench 270 hp
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Old Jun 28, 2007 | 05:01 PM
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Here is what we always called the old Fart Chart! Hope this helps you.

Engine Vacuum Old Timer Chart!

Steady 17-22 in hg = normal

Low but steady = late ignition, valve timing or low compression.

Very low = Vacuum leak.

Needle fluctuates as RPM’s Increase. = ignition miss, blown cylinder head gasket, leaking valve or weak spring.

Gradual drop at idle = excessive back pressure in exhaust system.

Intermitted fluctuation at idle = engine miss or sticking valve.

Drifting needle = improper idle mix, adjustment, carbs not synchronized, or minor intake leak.

High but steady = early ignition timing.
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Old Jun 28, 2007 | 05:58 PM
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Mine is 17"-18" at cruise speed.
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Old Jun 28, 2007 | 06:39 PM
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Originally Posted by Duke94
Mine is 17"-18" at cruise speed.
mine is around 20-21 at cruising speeds. i was just concerned about my vacuum at idle...
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Old Jun 28, 2007 | 07:33 PM
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Originally Posted by andylmusic76
mine is around 20-21 at cruising speeds. i was just concerned about my vacuum at idle...
My idle is about 19" as I recall.
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Old Jun 28, 2007 | 08:01 PM
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[QUOTE=kevinator80;1560871989]A stock engine should be higher. I can't say how high, but maybe 15-20"? Your cam, timing and carb settings all effect vacuum. Give some details and you will get more answers.

Mine is at 12-13 with a xe268 and 1.6 rockers, timing at 17 initial.[/QUOTE]

Identical numbers....same camshaft......454!
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