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Carb set-up!

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Old Aug 22, 2008 | 01:13 PM
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Default Carb set-up!

Just bought a rebuilt Q-jet. Everything looks good on the outside. However, the two needle screws (idle screws) on the front of the carb are screwed all of the way in. How many turns should I open them to get a good first start? I have heard 2 full turns open to start. Any suggestions or experiences?
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Old Aug 22, 2008 | 01:37 PM
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I'm not sure on the q-jets, but 2 turns ought to let it idle, then adjust from there for highest vacuum or turn them in til RPM just start to fall off.
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Old Aug 22, 2008 | 02:59 PM
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I go 2 1/2 to start gets you in the ball park!
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Old Aug 22, 2008 | 03:03 PM
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I go 2 1/2 to start gets you in the ball park! Make sure all the screws are tight and no vaccum leaks. Ron
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Old Aug 22, 2008 | 04:08 PM
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Originally Posted by Ron Rail
I go 2 1/2 to start gets you in the ball park! Make sure all the screws are tight and no vaccum leaks. Ron
Ok, I'll start at 2 1/2. Then while the engine is warmed up and at idle I close the screws until I hear the engine begin to stumble and then from that point back them out, what, about 1/2 turn?
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Old Aug 22, 2008 | 05:45 PM
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That sounds about right. But you want to make sure your timing/distributor set up is right and that you have no vacuum leaks before you work on the carb. Otherwise, you could just be masking other problems.
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Old Aug 22, 2008 | 06:57 PM
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Originally Posted by Apocolips
Ok, I'll start at 2 1/2. Then while the engine is warmed up and at idle I close the screws until I hear the engine begin to stumble and then from that point back them out, what, about 1/2 turn?
I don't think it will stumble unless you go way to far. Listen for the rpm drop. When you 1st hear it, stop there. The vacuum gage is easier IMO.
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Old Aug 22, 2008 | 07:21 PM
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I bought a Q-jet from Jet Performance. They recommended 3 turns as a starting point.
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