Well It Runs, But I have Qs - Howell Conversion

[Zeppe807]

I have worked the last 4 nights putting the Howell TBI kit on so that I can smog the Jeep. I spent some time making a bracket for an Idler Bearing to replace the smog/air pump. After I tested its functionality, I started the tear down. I ended up breaking the first bolt off of the air injection tubes for the exhaust manifold, and then the tubes, so I ended up welding the holes up. It turned out really well. The next night I took apart the electrical system to find melted, scabbed, and duct taped wires. It was a mess so I moved everything for the kit, and replaced all the butt connections and bad wires.

Tonight everything was buttoned up and it was started up. It did well, but there was something not right. I went through and found that when I pulled the MAP Sensor it ran better, but high idle. I did not set the idle, because it did not seem to be right. I really think the MAP sensor is not right.

I went to Autozone, because it was the only thing open, but they could not find a MAP that would replace it.

What is the application that I could ask for to get the appropriate replacement? It definitely is not an early 90s truck MAP Sensor.



I would really like to get this running for my birthday party this weekend, but I am at a wall. I will have to call Howell in the morning.




Thanks,
Joe Zeppe
:us:

 

[bondo258]

You have to set the idle, to get the proper ignition timing. Start it at 8 BTDC, as per the instructions. You can tweak it later.

It runs really poorly in open loop the first time it runs. The ECM needs to learn the peculiarities of YOUR motor.

Did you install a "trouble light" for diagnostics? No steady light, blinking light trouble codes means stuff is OK, fuel delivery wise.

The duct tape was factory, along with the crappy square crimp stuff.

The mini-Map Sensor was used on most GM non-TBI applications in the nineties. Howell paperwork has the GM part. no. It's also on the sensor.

 

[Zeppe807]

I just talked to Howell, possible/most likely bad MAP. It is out of a 99 or 00 full size gm truck.

I will get a new one and will report back later!


Thanks,
Joe Zeppe
:us:

 

[Zeppe807]

It past the SMOG Test! Better than average, and without any issues!

 

[Torxhead]

Congrats, and fortunatly since you put the thing on some you have some idea of how it works and where everything is at.

 

[Zeppe807]

The only thing I will have to do for next time, is to change/add a sticker under the "check CARB" light, so it says "check engine".

Everything else was as low as it could go! All very well.


Joe Zeppe
:us:

 

[Zeppe807]

A little update. I have been driving the Jeep almost every weekend since I have done this conversion and have driven it to work a handful of times (100 mile round trip). I Love driving this over anything else. My Kids try to talk me into going "somewhere - anywhere" each night I come home. It's been great.

I live 50miles north of San Francisco and work unfortunately am working on a construction project that will soon be a new iconic destination in SF. Since the Jeep has 3.73's in it, top cruising speed is 65-70, but it handles really well, and (THIS IS WHERE I AM BRAGGING) at that speed I have been getting on average 17mpg! I love It!

It should be mid 80's tomorrow and I will be going to work at 4am, but it will be great driving home tomorrow afternoon.

Besides the gun rack in the Jeep, this Howell Fuel Injection Conversion is the BEST MOD!


I Hope all is well,
Joe Zeppe

 

[thiswontbetooexpensive]

~~~Besides the gun rack in the Jeep, this Howell Fuel Injection Conversion is the BEST MOD!~~~

Love this part!

Glad it is working out good for you.