Hey, I am new to the forum and I had a question. I have a 1967 dart gt slant 6 and I can't get the car to run right. I replaced the distributor and I can't seem to get it to stay running when I put it in gear. It starts up fine and drives, but when I get to a stop or slow down, the car dies. I have done the timing, but it still isn't running right, any suggestions?

What is your initial timing set at, and are there any modifications to your engine?
Was it running right before the distributor was replaced?
Check valve lash. That's a big one!

CJ

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Part of Tyrde-Browne Racing

I am going to check on the valves. I think it is supposed to 5 degrees off tdc. It is all original, no mods.

it had the same problem before the new distributor, but the new dist. smoothed out the engine shake.

Try 10° BTDC initial. That should allow you to lower the idle to the point that your vacuum advance doesn't bump timing up when you hook up the hose.
Lash those valves. This is one of the most overlooked tune-up requirements with these engines. It'll run a bunch smoother and should keep the engine from dying at stop signs as the vacuum drops out and the timing retards.



CJ

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Part of Tyrde-Browne Racing

What are your rpm's at idle in park and in gear? Should be about 750rpm's in park and then drop to 550-600rpm's when you put it in gear. Did you replace your distributor with a points or electronic dist?

Welcome to the forum, Smoking Jays!
Replace the fuel filter and tune up the carburetor after you've done the valves. You can find instructions for a tune up in the FAQ, just click on this link.

Olaf

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Aspenized

Ceej is right on. Make sure your advance pot is plumbed to a ported vacuum and not manifold. It you read vacuum at idle on the hose, it is vacuum. A ported vacuum opening provides vacuum above idle only. If it is idling with vacuum at the distributor, and the rpm drops, then so does the timing, and it goes into a death spiral and quits running.

Also, the valves are critical . It is most important all intake be the same and all exhaust be the same. The factory manual calls for 010" intake and 020" exhaust, with the engine hot. But I set mine at 15 and 25. This provides a little less over lap and will increase low end torque. You will hear the exhaust smooth out as you get them evened out. Good luck.

Sam

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Thanks for all the tips. I am still new at auto mechanics but should have some friends to help me figure it out.

You should get a manual for your car, search eBay and other sources on the net for paper copies, or buy a cd, With simple hand tools you can do most of the work yourself, rather than relying on friends that probably doesn't know much more than you do. The FAQs in each section, and the search function in the forum is great, here you'll find all the info you need before you do a job. Good luck!

Olaf.

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Aspenized