I have a 74 Dodge Dart Custom 225. It has been in the family since June 24, 1974. The treatment it has received from other relatives is not the best to say the least. The engine was rebuilt about 8 years ago. Recently I have replaced the distributor, full tune up (cap/rotor, plugs, wires) the timing chain, rebuilt valve heads with hardened seats. It doesn't appear to be oil fouling any of the plugs.

The carb was jetted to pass smog (only to realize that as of Jan 1, it is now exempt...ugg! but still happy with that blessing). I recently had the carb rebuilt and jetted back to original specs, I asked the guy if he could jet it to the spects for a single barrel holly for 65. He ended up jetting back to 74 specs telling me that there was no difference between the two.

Performance on this baby is still subpar. It runs rough... period. Is there anyone in the L.A. County area, or San Fernando Valley that can take a look at it and give me their ideas? I am a Middle School Teacher with LAUSD and so cost is important as well as being honest. Though I do understand the importance of paying for someone that knows their stuff and if need be will do so. Wish I could beam this car to Doug.

P.S.
Enjoyed reading the article in Mopar Mag
on Doug and Cliffords reanimation of the
Hyperpack intake manifolds and that lovely
albeit rare Aluminum Block Slant 6.

Doug do you know anyone out here in L.A. or more
specifically San Fernando Valley?

Michael D
salutationz@hotpop.com

It wouldn't hurt to adjust the valves. I think Doug has a procedure somewhere here on this site if you search for it.

It's not hard to do. All you need is a wrench and some feeler gauges.

You might also want to double-check for vacuum leaks. Are any hoses dry and cracked, etc? Does the intake manifold gasket look good? You can spray carb cleaner around the intake gasket and around the base of the carb with the engine running. If the engine speed increases, then you've found the vacuum leak.

_________________
'68 Dodge Dart 4dr Sedan

Valve adjustment was my first thought, I bet that is the problem.
Readjust the valve lash and run a compression check and let us know what you find.

As for knowing people in LA, I know a few personally and have a lot of business contacts down there. Fact is I was in LA on business for two days last week.
DD