Car seems to run quite rich. I decided this morning in might be fuel pressure. PO added fuel pump but no pressure reg. I just picked up a very old school regulator (that an old car specialist shop has had on the shelf since the 60's I have no doubt) that is set to 3.5psi having read here that is what a Nikki likes. (this thing is so cool, Mile Master with a clear glass sediment chamber complete with magnet "filter". I couldn't resist. It belongs on something from the 50s and I bet there's some guys who'd like it for that!)
I hope to install my pressure gauge, check what it currently is, then install regulator and hope to see around 3 psi. but my test equipment is for injection so might not be worth much at such low pressures. Should I be able to tell by the float windows if indeed the pump is overpowering the float valves? I can't really see what's going on in there.
Think we're on the right track?
PS I know the cheapo regulators are pretty crappy, this one is in that category but I'd rather waste $20 and know today than spend $60 and wait a week to get a part I didn't need, ya know?

 

i think that sounds like a good thing to try. post of pic of the 50 year old regulator

 

Agreed, I too wish to see this vintage Reg you speak of.

 

Yeah, just make sure the gas comes to the middle of the windows on the carb. If it does, you're good.

(Add me to those curious about the '50s-era FPR. )

 

Okay, maybe 60's. Googled it and some guy was looking for one for his 50's Mercury or something.
Anyway, if it still works, fine if not I'll buy a 'real one'. Note the prestine state of the packaging. I love this shop, you have to go in there to believe it. It's a must stop in Grand Rapids. Northwestern Auto
Dig the magnet filter!

 

lol that things crazy looking!

 

well, no difference at all, bummer.
Better rebuild the carb I guess. I wouldn't be surprised if the PO rejetted it way up since a lot of "half a$#$ed mods are already present. Supposedly he street ported it, and removed the cat conv. and rat's nest and different fuel pump, so who knows what's been done to the carb. I couldn't get it idle below 1000 just now either.

 

Wow, sounds like a mess. Good luck man.