I finally got my RB header to replace the reactor on my 80. I installed it today.

Now I can't get my car to keep running at idle and I'm getting backfire.

Hey you guys with experience, is there something else that needs to be done when these conversion are done?

I put the blocker plates in place. Although I didn't use any sealant on the triangular (big) block off plate that came with the header.

I also didn't use a sealant on the header gaskets, as the RB instructions say it is not a must. However, they do recommend its use.

 

Pull the big blockoff plate back off and seal it up. Its probably causing a vacuum leak.

 

Ditto to that .

 

I reinstalled the big block plate with silicone sealer. Still the car won't idle.
I have been turning the two idle screws every which way but I can't get the car to stay on.

However, it does stay on on the initial startup with the choke pulled out. Of cousre, with the choke pull the enging runs at about 4k RPM. But once the choke pops back in the engine sputters to a halt.

More info:

The header is connected to the stock heat exchanger and the original pipe and muffler follows that.

Also, it idle fine before the conversion.

 

well, if you haven't solved the problem yet ... i'd say check the intake manifold and carburetor for all the vacuum hoses. i would suspect them first.

there is one that is located on the intake manifold (facing the firewall) since you just put headers on, i would think that's the likely culprit.

i hope that this helps you out ... just a shame that you'll have to reset the idle speed and mixture screws though.

let me know how it goes ...