suggestions
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Apr 2021
Posts: 31
Likes: 7
suggestions
Looking to increase performance on a 1973 L82 with electronic distributor, 2101 intake, 1406 600cfm carburetor elderbrock, 4spd, with a 3:55 rear. Thinking AFR aluminum heads either Eliminator 1800 64cc or 195 Enforcer 65cc. in addition, is there any difference for straight or angle plugs? Suggestions and or comments?
Intermediate
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 43
Likes: 18
From: Tomball TX
My '73 had an L48 with an electronic distributor and 6AL box, AVS 1711 carb (750CFM), AFR 192 heads, and a 2701 intake. I don't think 600CFM be enough.
I don't remember the camshaft specs or the stall on the converter (auto trans), but it wasn't a pleasant ride in the Texas heat during daily traffic. It just ran too hot and was way too punchy on acceleration.
I don't remember the camshaft specs or the stall on the converter (auto trans), but it wasn't a pleasant ride in the Texas heat during daily traffic. It just ran too hot and was way too punchy on acceleration.
Last edited by mrandig; Feb 27, 2026 at 06:25 PM. Reason: Correct typos
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Apr 2021
Posts: 31
Likes: 7
Carb was already installed when I purchased the vette. I have the original Quadrajet (was rebuilt by Lars but 15 years ago), but was replaced by the 600 cfm elderbrock when previous owner put the 2101 intake on. looking for suggestions for improved performance and drivability. Look for Tony’s Corvette Shop in maryland to do some of the work. Thanks for your feedback.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2021
Posts: 2,642
Likes: 2,096
From: Minnesota
The 2101 is a dual pattern, meaning it can have a spread bore carb like a Quadrajet on it. It probably needs to be gone through again after 15 years, but after that put it back on and enjoy the increased power and drivability.
The rest sounds like a good plan. If you’re keeping the L82 cam some 1.6 ratio rockers can help too.
The rest sounds like a good plan. If you’re keeping the L82 cam some 1.6 ratio rockers can help too.
Last edited by Piersonpie; Feb 27, 2026 at 12:26 PM.
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Drifting
Joined: Jun 2025
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Likes: 575
New headers going in?
Also ensure rest of exhaust system isn't bent/crushed/mashed; restricting exhaust flow.
Freshen QJet and run it.
Not racing ?
typically, sbc 350 heads w/180cc intake runners are more suitable (and more responsive) on street-in traffic.
Change distributor from points to electronic ?
If your carb needs setting-up/re-jetting/tuning, do just that; rather than band-aiding it with more ignition.
A good USA OE Points dist, that's well-prepped & in good condition, is capable of accurate timing well beyond when your rods leave crank or your valves float.
Or, a good USA OE HEI, that's also well-prepped & in good condition, is nearly as bullet-proof; DIY convert your OE '73 mech tach w/ an electric movement (or send it out).
Lotsa MSD elec dist have an ugly tendency to corrode internally. Look round & under hoods. The incidence of OE CD ignitions in serial production, passenger vehicles is exceedingly rare (for good reason).
KISS; the more complex ignition electronics become, reliability suffers. That's regardless if it'll connect w/ your phone via Bluetooth.
Also ensure rest of exhaust system isn't bent/crushed/mashed; restricting exhaust flow.
Freshen QJet and run it.
Not racing ?
typically, sbc 350 heads w/180cc intake runners are more suitable (and more responsive) on street-in traffic.
Change distributor from points to electronic ?
If your carb needs setting-up/re-jetting/tuning, do just that; rather than band-aiding it with more ignition.
A good USA OE Points dist, that's well-prepped & in good condition, is capable of accurate timing well beyond when your rods leave crank or your valves float.
Or, a good USA OE HEI, that's also well-prepped & in good condition, is nearly as bullet-proof; DIY convert your OE '73 mech tach w/ an electric movement (or send it out).
Lotsa MSD elec dist have an ugly tendency to corrode internally. Look round & under hoods. The incidence of OE CD ignitions in serial production, passenger vehicles is exceedingly rare (for good reason).
KISS; the more complex ignition electronics become, reliability suffers. That's regardless if it'll connect w/ your phone via Bluetooth.