[daviesl]

just in case the new header gasket doesn't solve the problem remember to check the heat riser flap's condition and the intake manifold (just under the carb) for cracks, it's a common problem causing backfiring through the carb (black soot on the engine side barrel) and idle probs. Also, just to make sure add a ground line from the green wire going from your idle solenoid to part of the frame, Richard at K&H showed me that trick. cheers (I'm in the process of doing the same on my fj60, ended up taking buying the overhaul gasket kit and taking off the head too, figured while i had everything off I might as well make more work for myself.)