Will computer, carb and distr handle these upgrades?

11-01-05, 07:32 AM

Hi guys,
This winter I am rebuilding my engine with flat-top pistons, vortec heads, 9.5/1 compression, cam designed for power in 1500 - 5500 RPM range, and dual plane intake. To save $$, I was considering keeping the original carb and distributor hooked up to the computer, but upgrading the computer with a hypertech chip. Anyone have experience or advise on how well this will run and take advantage of the power produced by my other upgrades vs. the other option of new carb and distributor and ditching the computer?

Also, if I replace the carb and distributor with non-computer-controlled ones, does anyone know the affect it would have on the transission shift points, as doesn't the computer also control the tranny? (I have an auto tranny)

Thanks for your help!

gedmeyer · 11-01-05, 11:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Little Brother

Hi guys,
This winter I am rebuilding my engine with flat-top pistons, vortec heads, 9.5/1 compression, cam designed for power in 1500 - 5500 RPM range, and dual plane intake. To save $$, I was considering keeping the original carb and distributor hooked up to the computer, but upgrading the computer with a hypertech chip. Anyone have experience or advise on how well this will run and take advantage of the power produced by my other upgrades vs. the other option of new carb and distributor and ditching the computer?

Also, if I replace the carb and distributor with non-computer-controlled ones, does anyone know the affect it would have on the transission shift points, as doesn't the computer also control the tranny? (I have an auto tranny)

Thanks for your help!

I did a similar upgrade, going to a 383 stroker motor. I had no problems keeping the original intake/carb. I did rebuild the carb and changed the needles on the secondaries. Whether or not this is the optimum setup for power, that is debate-able. I don't know about the tranny b/c I have a manual.

-gedmeyer

11-03-05, 09:04 AM

Gedmeyer,
Even "Lars" or quadrajet rebuild fame suggests that the EM4E carbs on '81 vettes only be rebuilt by trained professionals, so I have shied away from it. How easy was it? WHere did you get the rebuild kit?

gedmeyer · 11-07-05, 07:17 AM

I should clarify....

I did (have someone else) rebuild the carb...

I believe the company was National Carburetor, or something to that effect. They were in Florida. They did a FANTASTIC job. It came back literally looking brand new (and they rebuilt and sent back MY carb.)