Lets tune the 440

[Paul G]

I just finished the cam swap on the 440. This is the link.
http://www.dodgecharger.com/forum/index.php/topic,27276.0.html

I have been driving the car without adjusting the throttle cable for wide open throttle. I just forgot to check it after it was all back together. I could feel that the 440 had more power than before, but it was only getting about 3/4 throttle opening. After I adjusted the cable to pull the throttle fully open, man was I impressed. It really pulls hard now. But more problems have popped up. I have not mapped out the timing curve yet, probably tomarow. Base is set at 12* btdc with total at around 40* . no pinging though.

When I tromp on the gas the engine just dies, sometimes with a backfire through the carb.

The engine starts to sputter around 4800 rpm. rpm is reading from tha factory tach which may not be that acurate. It seems to pull hard to around 4500 though. 

There is strong exhaust smell while the engine is running. So much that my clothes carry it with. Too rich??

I am going to map out the timing like Ron wants. After that how do I set/check the carb adjustment and tune it?

[aifilaw]

when you tromp on it, and it dies...
this is a direct result of the "squirter" and typically the "cam" on the carb. This accessory to most carbs is made speficialyl to dump in lots of fuel instantly when you do quick openings of the throttle so the engine doesn't lean out and bog/die.

Therefore, either A. the squirter/controlling cam are dumping in too much fuel, and its getting flooded, or B. the squirter/controlling cam are not dumping in enough fuel, and its going lean.

Sputtering around 4800 could mean a couple things, either its timing related, and you will find it soon. Or, as fuel demand increases (linearly via RPM and throttle position). In other words, have you increased your fuel needs and are unable to meet them?

[Paul G]

I adjusted the rod on the accelerator pump. It was depressing the pump even at idle. Now the plunger just rests on the pump at idle. It didn't cough and die on the test run. The test run was to the gas station. The tank was empty. Real empty. Sucking air empty. I put $30 worth (a little more than 1/4 tank) of 91 octane and now it revs right through 5500 RPM and still pulling. Out with the wife for now. Do the timing thing tomorrow. Charger play time is over for tonight.   

[supserdave]

Sounds like your getting closer! I'd still be leary having 40 degrees total timing, double check your plugs.

[firefighter3931]

That sounds much better Paul ! Been there on the throttle cable adjustment....amazing how well they run when the carb opens fully huh ! 

The k56 was the right cam for your combo.....i'm convinced of that. 

I use a vac guage to adjust the idle mixture. Have a look at your plugs for color....tan/light brown means the jetting is good.


Nice work !



Ron