Good book for learning about carbs...

[jonzer12]

Hi guys, I am planning on starting my sbc swap in the spring, I have been actively looking for a decent Z, bought the JTR book already and have been brushing up on my auto/fab skills (which are very limited right now).

I've come to the realization that I know nothing about carbs. I don't even know how to tune one. I was wondering if anyone knows of a good "carbs for dummies" type book to get me started. I know the basic theory behind a carb, the functions of jets/choke etc but I have never even owned a carbed veh, much less worked on one. Anyways, enough yapp'n, pls help me out.

[Guest cbrunberg]

Depending on how much motor you are building your carb choices very a great deal. If you are buying or building a mild performance sbc, 10:1 compression or less around .500 lift or less working RMP range to about 5800 - 6000. Then I would suggest a "new" Edelbrock carb. They seem to work pretty well right out of the box, need very little maint., and come with a book on how to tune them. I called their tech line and got good service. Some of the other guys here know more than I do and may have better advice, but this worked for me.

 

I hope that helps

 

Carl

[jonzer12]

I am looking at some well worn stock SBC's to get me started. I plan on sinking my money into suspension/cosmetics right off the bat and worry about a strong motor later. With that being the priority I have some leads on some well worn small blocks in need of light rebuilds. I plan on stripping it down to the shortblock, putting in new gaskets and cleaning up the carb (stock 4bl). I hope that will last me a few years.

What I need is a basic book on carbs to get me started. Will the repair manual for the year/model of car the engine is from suffice or does anyone know of a book just about basic carb setup/ cleaning/ rebuilding.