Update!
So it's been a little over a month. I'm pretty pleased with my "progress" so far considering all the other things I've been doing as well as trying to keep up with the FJ.
Replaced:
-Speedo Cable (then broke, faultly, then CCOT sent me the wrong replacement, gotta send it back)
-Gas tank: new poly tank. Works well, but currently the vehicle has a Carter electric fuel pump and NO return line. I think I really need to do something about this but haven't dove into the whole "so where does this return line come off the carb...." issue. I'll get there. Also the "new" fuel sending unit that came with my tank from CCOT reads WAY off (as in 3/4 on the guage = bone dry). You could have asked me how I knew while I was on the side of the road for an hour. First time EVER being stranded in a motorized vehicle. Arg....
-Windsheid wipers (mmm, easy)
-Centering pin: I haven't found a definitive answer to this after searching, but how far down should the large threaded cap go down into the housing? Looks like my new one only goes in about 1/2 while the used one was all the way threaded. I'm guessing that's the adjustment but since it's steering, I want to make sure.
- Tie rods: Lots of grunting, lots of bloody knuckles, but I think I got the toe-in correct. Just a HAIR toed in and it seems to drive with less wander than before. Still a little slop in the steering box, but eh, what can ya do?
- Carb rebuilt: Seems to work well, but doesn't run smooth at all. Also has a bit of a flat spot right off idle. Once in a while it will "skip" as in hesitate/not fire for a split second. It feels like she's running lean. It has headers on it, not sure what kind, but am I wrong in assuming it should be jetted slightly richer due to this?
-Checked timing: Was pretty retarded (no pun intended). Got it set correctly on the flywheel. Problem is that I have a Crane X7000 or whatever electronic ignition. When I phased the rotor it didn't run as well anymore. Who knows....I think I still am off but I can't get it back. I'd like to see if my advance is working, but that will be the next free day I have. Start motocycle racing next weekend so it may be a while before I get back to her.
-Adjusted valves: Holy TIGHT batman! Most of the valves were out of spec on the tight side. Loosened them up. Still no TACK TACK TACK but they are closer to being in spec.
-Lubed: Changed out the rear diff fluid. She was milky. Thank you water! I'll have to run the diff breather up high just like I did on my Taco. Not yet though, she won't see water until I can get her to run RIGHT.
-Ebrake: I have the rebuild kit, just gotta put it in. I figured I'd wait to change the transfer case fluid when I do the ebrake since I'll be putting the new seal in anyways.
-Clutch: Flushed the fluid. Smoother at the pedal now that the tar/molasses wasn't in place of brake fluid. She still chatters when starting out in 1st from a standing start. I think my rear main seal is leaking slowly since she does slip every now and again. Add it to the list once I finally make a decision on what tranny/gearing I'll be doing in her.
-Plugs: Changed them. Gapped the new ones. Old plugs were healthy/tan. Nothing more to add....(gasp!)
So she is registered, driving and enjoyable. Still WAY too stiff but after doing a bit more reading, SOA sounds better and better. I found a link to a company that sells pre-turned axles on here and I like that idea. I'm not an accomplished welder and have a set of stock springs to use if necessary. One of my friends who knows his s*** with suspension is recommending I try some longer shackles first. I have stock/short shackles on there currently. Opinions?
Engine still runs rough. Our head brewer at work has a '74 with the same carb/engine as me and his runs like butter compared to mine. Doesn't necessarily accelerate faster but runs infinitly smoother and has better throttle response. Mine has almost a delay to it. I want his engine!!!!!!
My carb linkage is pretty micky mouse. The throttle cable actually does a 270 coming out of the firewall into the throttle arm. Anyone have a picture of what a correct throttle linkage looks like? Something just ain't right and it makes my pedal REALLY heavy.
I also don't think my secondary is working. The weighted butterfly doesn't open when I WOT rev it in nuetral (not tackin it out, short bursts just trying to get enough vacuum). I would imagine it would take being under load to work with steady throttle input, but I'm not thinking it's working. Just doesn't seem to have enough nut....
Anyone local want some free beer in exchange for an afternoon of your expertise? I'm in north central MA. Did I mention I work for a brewery?
Welcome....
