Not firing on all eight

[Sean8]

My '81 4-speed has a rough idle, and I can feel a slight bump or lag as I'm pulling through each gear. My guess is I'm not working with eight cylindars. Perhaps a bad plug, or wire or casing or something else? I am no expert so any advice you can give is much appreciated. Thanks in advance.

 

[Tom Bryant]

How long since it's been tuned? First make sure the choke butterfly is all the way open when warmed up. Check the choke pull off diaphram to make sure it is good and not allowing the choke to suck partially closed on acceleration. If it's been a long time since tuned I would start with a new fuel filter, set of plugs, cap and rotor and set the timing. If it's still rough put on a new set of plug wires.

If this doesn't cure it I would have a good carb guy rebuilt the carb.

Tom

 

[Sean8]

Thanks for the advice Tom. Actually, I brought it to a Corvette dealership here in town today and they recommended exactly like you suggested: new plugs, wires, plate etc., It was leaking oil which really messed up the plugs. Anyway, a few hundred bucks later and I'm back in action! This Vette is a true pleasure. Thanks, again.