Guys- my brother has a '65 swb step side w/ a rebuilt 396, 400 trans, 2500 rpm stall, edlebrock 750 cfm carb, 100 amp alternator, the works...really nice engine but he's having some problems that's got me puzzled. About eight or nine months ago we could run up and down the interstate cruzing 'round 75-80 mph. Shortly after that the engine started hesitating as though it wasn't getting fuel and from time to time a lot of power fading and just quiting on him some times. A new electronic ignition and manual fuel pump was installed. Still no luck. We took it to a local guy that's been doing most of the work to his truck and got it back yesterday afternoon and it still runs like crap. Just a few months ago it was running strong enuff to comfortably reach hiway speeds of 90 + mph ( 3:08 rear axle) but today it just barely moves along, misses, engine sputters,ect. Any one experienced enuff with big blocks to tell us what to do or where to start. :-( Verdell '60 Apache swb fleetside
From what you said here, it sounds like ignition problems. If you are using a HEI distributor where are you getting 12v supply from? Check plug wires for age. If this is a external coil type distributor check the coil's out put.. Start it up at night, in a dark area, open the hood and look for electrical arcing when applying the throttle. Make SURE you have good ignition. Diagnosing problems is a process of elimination. It all starts with ignition, timing then fuel delivery. Dennis
I think i would just start with a simple tune up. Then try a buddy's carb. Is your carb new or was it rebuilt? cause my edelbrock was used and well my uncle ( he's pretty good with carbs, too) and i rebuilt it and it got to where it wouldn't even idle.My opinion i would try a holley. Thats where i woudl start. Cowboy 1961 chevy 1/2 ton shortbed stepside(soon to be 454 powered)
