Howdy 66Project:
And, welcome to The Forum.
First, know the the Holley 1946 is the last one barrel used on the FoMoCo 200s. It is very encumbered with emmissions feed back systems that, when working as designed on '79 to '82 engines, works pretty well. Eliminating the unnecessary stuff and getting to the tuning parts is more then a little complicated. Basically, it gives a ported vacuum signal to the stock OEM Dura Spark II ignition system.
Your stock '66 used a Load-O-Matic distributor that requires a carb with a Spark Control Valve (SCV) that sends a specific load signal to the distributor. Your stock distributor advance mechanism will not work as disigned with a 1946.
The 1946 will require a change or adaptation to get it hooked to your throttle linkage. The vehicles that used the 1946 use a cable system. Same is true for air cleaners and fuel lines.
Finally, the 1946 is not rated with as much CFM as your stock Autolite 1100- 180 cfm to 185.
The pluses of the 1946 are that it is quite durable and low maintainance, it has a better idle and transition circuitry. It has a much better air cleaner system, with Climatic Control- which duct hot engine air to the carb when cold and cool outside air when the engine is hot. Another plus is that Alberto has been down this road and you have him and his expeerience as an aide.
On the richness issues of your stock carb, have you properly set the choke? Is it working? are there any leaks? How long since the last rebuild? Is the choke set too high? Idle speed? are your spark plugs too cold?
In my experiences the Autolite 1100 is one of the best one barrels on the market. It is simple, easy to work on and rebuild. The downside is that they are susceptable to dirt and carbon contamination because of the flow through hot air choke system. the accelerator pump system is weak and may require more frequent rebuild.
IF the only thing that you are chasing is a richness problem, I'd be inclined to suggest that you attempt to rebuild what you have and learn to tune it to it's potential.
Also consider an upgrade to your stock ignition system with a Petronix Ignitor.
If you want more performance, that's another story.
Again, Welcome and come back with some feedback so we know if we're giving you the info you want and need.
Adios, David
