introduction/ questions
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 19
Likes: 0
introduction/ questions
Hi all,
I am new to the Corvette scene, having came over from the dark side of Mustangs. That being said I have no desire to fight the computer every time I change something in the motor. So, First thing I would like to do is rid the car of its "brain". What carb, dist. works well and is more or less plug/play?Looking forward to getting to know the members here and enjoying our latest toy. Thanks in advance!
I am new to the Corvette scene, having came over from the dark side of Mustangs. That being said I have no desire to fight the computer every time I change something in the motor. So, First thing I would like to do is rid the car of its "brain". What carb, dist. works well and is more or less plug/play?Looking forward to getting to know the members here and enjoying our latest toy. Thanks in advance!
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 3,323
Likes: 142
From: Green Valley Arizona
I say you can have alot of fun with the L81 engine with the CCC system connected. All the CCC does is attempt to keep the air fuel mixture correct and advance the timing. Getting the 4EME carb setup takes just a bit more of effort...but not much at all.
Now if the carb is not working and need parts....they are a bit more than the aftermarket carbs and youi cannot find new ones...only rebuilt ones. Always one on ebay for sale.
But one thing to keep in mind is that changing the intake, carb and distributor is only going to make a small difference in the performance of the L81 engine. It has dished pistons and 8.2:1 CR or something really low like that. If you want performance, pull the engine, get different heads, flat top pistons, deck the block, change the cam, get a stroker crank....and then put on the new intake, carb and distributor...now you will make some HP.
Good luck,
LannyL81
Now if the carb is not working and need parts....they are a bit more than the aftermarket carbs and youi cannot find new ones...only rebuilt ones. Always one on ebay for sale.
But one thing to keep in mind is that changing the intake, carb and distributor is only going to make a small difference in the performance of the L81 engine. It has dished pistons and 8.2:1 CR or something really low like that. If you want performance, pull the engine, get different heads, flat top pistons, deck the block, change the cam, get a stroker crank....and then put on the new intake, carb and distributor...now you will make some HP.
Good luck,
LannyL81
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 19
Likes: 0
Thanks!
I live is SE Ohio, right on the river. Pics will be forth coming. Also, after my experiance in firghting the computer in a mustang, I would just as soon as do away with it in the vette. So any suggestions for carb/dist. set-up would be great.
I live is SE Ohio, right on the river. Pics will be forth coming. Also, after my experiance in firghting the computer in a mustang, I would just as soon as do away with it in the vette. So any suggestions for carb/dist. set-up would be great.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 2,465
Likes: 0
From: Orange Park Fl
I have to agree with Lanny. The '81 CCC system is simple and effective. Don't take your Mustang frustration out on your Vette! There is a lot of help available here. Any aftermarket stuff is a downgrade. God bless, Sensei
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 8,295
Likes: 30
From: one night in Bangkok you are never lonely
When I first started building my engine I sent Edelbrock an Email with my gas octane problems here and the high temps we have. They came back with a package suggestion plus recommendations on pistons to use. I ordered all the parts they suggested from Summit including the 64cc heads and pistons, rods and rockers. I sometimes have a dieseling problem when the engine is hot as the fuel here is not regulated. With any stock 81 Corvette any thing you do improves performance. I am running the summit high output distributor and dynomax headers. I did have to install a plate under the carb due to high engine temps plus a fuel gauge and flow regulator due to the Holley high output fuel pump. In the future I may install a slightly bigger cam but not right now. I’m guessing about 350 HP as it is now. So from 190 to 350 it is a big improvement. You should be able to complete the engine for under $2,000, the heads being the biggest cost in this.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 1,146
Likes: 10
From: Scottsboro Alabama
If you're satisfied with driving an underpowered corvette keep it stock. Just don't pick on any soccer moms driving minivans, you might get your feelings hurt and your ego will suffer a terrible downfall. 
