keithl1967

Is the vacuum steady, but low, or is it low and erratic? The needle should not vary very much. If it is "bouncing", along with everything else you are describing, you wither have wiped a cam lobe or two, or the lifters are broken...might also explain why the one keeps loosening on you...

I had a motor with a mechanical cam...two exploded lifters, but I could still get it to run with a very rich mixture, but would backfire through the carb from time to time, and the idle was always rough...
didn't realize the lifter issue until I finally got frustrated and tore the motor down...

lionelhutz

I think you are quite mistaken in why I posted. I had no intention of helping you with your issue because this isn't your thread. I posted the response to ensure everyone else knew what you posted was wrong, to the point it shouldn't even be debated. I hope one day the 180* out cam myth dies instead of being perpetuated.

The OP needs to fix the rocker issue, and then confirm TDC. After that, he can move on to the timing and carburetor tuning to get his engine running right.

techinspector1

I'm sure that most fellows and gals on here know how to find top dead center, but maybe there are a few that don't, so I will post a tutorial that I wrote many years ago to fill the gap for those few......
http://www.crankshaftcoalition.com/w...op_dead_center

Duke94

The vacuum is low but steady. We pulled the manifold and lifters last night but didn't have a chance to check any yet.

Thanks

HeadsU.P.

Theres always the possibility the cam was installed wrong. Not 180 out but another way. Most timing chain sets come with the option of changing the timing of the cam. There are three markings and three slots or keyways on the crank sprocket. Of the three, I believe one is straight up, one is 4* advanced and lastly 4* retarded. Which mark did someone use and not double check?

Duke94

We'll pull the front end off and see.

OMF

I hate to say it but this thread is getting better all the time

Duke94

The one exhaust lifter that wouldn't adjust had a piece of contaminate under the disc on the pushrod side.