Mgrad92

My 81 with a stock QuadraJet carb stays on high idle for a VERY long time. (Probably 6 or 7 miles of city driving - long after the temp gauge has moved into the normal operating range.)
I'm not familiar with how this carb actually kicks down. Can this be manually adjusted, or does the computer make this decision?

MelWff

You have an adjustable choke on the carburetor, it may be sticking.

Mgrad92

So the choke and the high idle are adjusted together?

MelWff

When the choke closes it moves a cam which causes a high idle. If it doesnt fully open when warm or takes a long time you will have a high idle. Again it may not be adjusting but cleaning that is required.

Mgrad92

Thank you for the detailed explination.

Shark Racer

The 81 should have an electric choke, so there's really only the adjustment on the side of the carb. Loosen 3 screws and twist the black plastic piece with the wiring pigtail (choke cap)... trouble is right now I can't remember which way to go. I believe towards the firewall increases choke engagement time and away decreases it.

If the choke is completely fubar, you can order a new kit from Edelbrock, Cliff Ruggles, Quadrajet parts . com, etc.