[Healeys] Tuning

[Bob Spidell]

Others have suggested the most likely problem--fuel delivery--but I'm wondering what state your exhaust system is in? A blocked exhaust could cause similar symptoms. 

Bob 

----- Original Message -----


I have driven my BJ7 several times this week. Each time I drove the car, 
there was a noticeable lack of power. 

The car slows down when climbing long hills and will not accelerate at all 
up them. On flat sections, I could not get the car to accelerate at 
anything more than a modest amount in fourth gear. It was somewhat better 
in second and third. If I engage overdrive, the car will cruise OK on the 
flats but drop out of overdrive instantly when climbing a hill or pressing 
the accelerator. 

I have checked everything (I think). New plugs, cap, rotor and wires are 
OK. Valves are set properly, timing is right on and advances when the 
engine RPM goes up, no wobble in the shaft. I have a Pertronics replacing 
the points and have had it installed for years with no problems. Carbs 
seem to be adjusted properly with an air flow meter. Chokes are not stuck 
open. Fuel pump and fuel flow is great. The battery is in good shape 
fully charged and the alternator is charging just fine. 

I am using the highest octane ethanol pump gas (93) and I know that has 
some impact on drive-ability. 

I have looked on line and am considering an emissions tester. Moss sells 
an O2 sensor called the Exhaust Gas Analyzer but it measures only O2. Moss 
also sells a Wide Band O2 Sensor Controller (I am not quite sure of the 
differences) that requires an oxygen sensor to be installed. Is one better 
than the other? 

For those who have used one of these devices, or something similar, what do 
they really do and can I get the car set up properly with either of them? 
Is there an alternative that I should consider before considering either of 
these options? Will these types of devices allow the proper air/fuel 
mixture to be accurately set. 

Any information and guidance in this arena would be greatly appreciated. 

Thanks in advance, 

Fred 
63BJ7