Okay, first off, I really like FI. I think carbs are going out of style and choose my delivery methods based on this.

BUT...

since I love first gens more than I care about the FI/carb argument, I figure I had better learn how to work on them and how they work. I was hoping that we could have a nice little discussion about how the whole thing works, the specifics of carbs (primarily the 1st gen Nikki of course), and what I should know before I dive into my 79 to work on it (doing a swap here pretty soon).

Anyone who has any insight, understanding, comments, advice, or banter please chime in and help me learn about these things. Thanks guys.

 

Most middle-aged people I talk to prefer a carburated engine over a car with EFI because they can't go attacking the engine with just a screwdriver and a wrench. I had a FI car before my 12a FB and unfortunately, all the engine and fuel system repairs were done at the dealer. Had it been carburated, I probably would have done all the tune-ups and repairs myself. Although, it really depends on the car. For example, it's much easier to clean out the carb on a 12a than it is to clean the fuel injectors on a front-wheel drive Caravan. EFI has many advantages over carburated engines though - smoother idle, improved fuel usage, etc.

Anyway, if you're new to carbs, then I'd get an auto book on carburators. This will explain the basics of carburator operation and maintenance. I think there is a "Dummy book" on carbs too, which is written for a novice.

 

I will definitely look into that. Anyone else know of any good books out there?

 

http://personal.riverusers.com/~yawpower/carbtun.html

'how to build and powertune your weber dcoe and dellorto dhla carburetors' is a great book on their carbs i bought. but you'll get the basics off yawpowers site.

-bp-

 

http://www.howstuffworks.com/question377.htm