Need some help -where to begin?

[Anonymous]

Hello. My 200 is giving me some problems.
Lately it has been hard to start, easily flooding. I've been getting around this but I know it needs fixing, but NOW it is misfiring when it's in drive. It will idle in park and it sounds OK, although it's idles like it's trying to go into orbit. I checked the timing and it's where it should be. The air pump is making a noise like a maraca, so I'm pretty sure it's shot.

So to recap, I've got these problems:
Flooding/rich carb
Fast idle
Misfiring
Bad air pump

So where do I start? Can I modify this engine to a more "bare bones" configuration? I don't have to pass smog tests here, but I did read in another post that the 1946 holly needs the air pump to run properly. What can I do?? Why would it just start missing? The plugs, wires, and cap are new.

Help! :!: and thanks in advance

Lucian

 

[Anonymous]

Lucian,
It sounds like the carb needs to be re-tuned. With the auto trans, you should set the idle speed with the car in drive (chock the wheels, though!) and with lights on, a/c running, if fitted.

A rich condition can foul plugs really quickly. I'd pull the plugs and see if this is the case. That would cause sudden misfiring.

 

[Anonymous]

thank you for the idle tip.

I checked the plugs and they look clean with normal wear... What else can I check?

 

[BIGREDRASA]

Make sure the float level is not too high. If the float is plastic, replace it with a brass float. Plastic floats become porous, and therefore heavier, changing the whole equation.

If that doesn't help, take two aspirins and call me in the morning.

 

[Anonymous]

So I'm checking the float level, right, and it's way to high, but how do you adjust the thing? My lame-o manual just says, "After adjusting..." -it doesn't say how to do it! Also, any tips on rebuilding that carburetor? It's the Holley 1946.

Thanks for the help.

Lucian