tuning tips

[ThePunisher]

Does anyone have any tuning tips for a AMC 304 without vacuum advance? The PO had a distributor installed with no vacuum advance. So far I've installed new plugs, wires and a rebuilt 2100. Next I'll be replacing the rotor, cap and points. It starts and idles fine but struggles above 1500 RPMs. What's the easiest way to get the timing perfect along with the air/fuel ratio?

 

[73CJ]

So is this replacement distributor a performance one?

If not, I'd start looking for a different one. Not sure if you'll get it to run correctly on the street.

Any pics of this distutor?

 

[jasonmark1993]

Youve got a couple of weights in there with some springs that give you a timing advance curve. There is also a couple of bushings that limit the amount of advance you can get.

Id confirm that the weights move, springs are there etc.

Initially Id just check the timing and then watch it as you rev the engine up a little. You should get full advance around 3k rpm or so. Not sure what total should be but usually around 20-25 advance is normal.

 

[ThePunisher]

I think it's a Motorcraft distributor with no vacuum advance. I'm not sure though.

I also have a stock distributor with vacuum advance that I can swap. Should I just do that?

 

[Saddle Tramp]

Try this as not all AMC 304s used the same distributor systems:

http://www.junkyardgenius.com/ignition/jeep/jeep01.html

 

[johnbilt]

Hi - Not sure if there is any advantage of running a non-vacuum advance dist for the strret or trail. The vacuum advance allows the ignition to adjust for changing loads. I think the non vacuum version is mainly for racing at wide open throttle where they use the mechanical advance to bring in the ignition advance based on RPM.

I updated my AMC V8 to a Davis Unified Ignition and haven't looked back. They set them up for your specific application and rpm range when you order. In my view it's worth the investment.

John

 

[BusaDave9]

I'm with John, you need to install a distributor with a mechanical advance. You'll get much better throttle response.

 

[ThePunisher]

Swapped in a dizzy with vac advance and wow it made a HUGE difference. Idles and runs like a dream now. Just have a few small things to button up under the hood and then it's on to the rest of the driveline

 

[northboundcj5]

I just installed a new distributer I bought from 4 wheel parts for around a hundred bucks, It has a vaccum advance, and works great! It smoothed out the idle and my AMC 304 pulls alot better than it used to. I also replaced the plugs and wires. Reset the timeing and also rebuilt my carb.. hope that helps.....