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Originally Posted by JRMichler
On a car that old, I'd check the cam timing. Then check the ignition timing, not just the idle timing but the timing at higher RPM and the amount of the vacuum advance.
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The cam timing is... well, there isn't a lot of room for adjustment, near as I can tell. It's DOHC, and the cogs have markings for their positions relative to... I assume top dead center. With that in position, I adjusted the ignition timing to between 15 and 20 at ~700 RPM, and I can't even see where the timing advance goes at higher RPM. As soon as I touch the throttle, the timing mark shoots off to the left beyond the 15 degree mark and I see nothing.
I don't know how to check the vacuum advance. Can you explain the general idea so I can figure it out?
Quote:
Originally Posted by JRMichler
Check for brake drag by checking brake temperature after driving ten miles or so, preferably at highway speed. Coast to a stop, then check each drum with your hand. They should be at ambient temperature. If it's warm, it's dragging.
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Will do. I'll have a chance on Monday, probably.
Quote:
Originally Posted by JRMichler
Manual or automatic transmission? What is the RPM at 60 MPH? What is the available power in top gear at 60 MPH? Will it maintain speed uphill without downshifting? Accelerate uphill without downshifting?
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Automatic. It sits at 2200 RPM at 60 mph, in fourth with the torque converter lock engaged. I have wonderful power at this speed, and I can easily accelerate uphill without downshifting. In fact, the only way to make it downshift at that speed is to press the accelerator all the way down and trip the computer's shift trigger. It has very nice power in that band.
Quote:
Originally Posted by JRMichler
Tape some pieces of yarn to the hood and drive on the highway. If they all point rearward, you are good. If some of them swirl around in circles or point forward, there is room for aerodynamic improvements to the front end.
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Hey, that's a great idea. I'll do that on my next trip. Thanks.