I've got a 1964 Econoline with a 170/3speed combo. Here is my problem... The van starts and runs great. The only problem is that it won't go over 2200 rpms at about 50mph. I have a rebuilt carb and new fuel pump so I don't think the carb is the issue. I can rev it up to 3500 rpms when it's in neutral...so it's getting plenty of gas. It has fresh plugs and wires and i've replaced all of the vacuum lines. It's not struggling or screaming at 50mph...it feels like is has plenty more power to give. I originally thought I wasn't getting full acceleration, but I don't think thats the issue. Could my timing be off or something with the distributor? My fear is that the engine is just plain worn and tired...but it doesn't smoke or knock...it actually sounds pretty good. Any advice is greatly appreciated!!
Had the exact same problem with my '63 (same engine/tranny combo) but it would stall out in 3rd at lower RPMs. I thought it was vapor lock - it wasn't. Turns out my gas tank and fuel line was so full of rust particles it would starve the motor of fuel. I had the gas tank cleaned and resealed for about $200 at a local radiator shop. I replaced all the fuel lines and I threw in an electric fuel pump just for good measure. The weirdest thing was that it would always stall in front of the high schools...