Recently picked up a OT 65 Mustang for the old lady. Has a low mileage(motor was gone through 9-10 years ago and not driven much) 289 that runs well. I have recently noticed that when at a steady cruise at 40mph(very little load on the engine) it has a very slight mis or hesitation, but I can punch it and it responds right away and accelerates smoothly. I was checking things over and noticed that it randomly pops out of the p***enger side pipe(dual exhaust with no H pipe) at idle. The engine visually runs smooth, it doesn't shake around or anything(even when it pops out of the pipe). Plugs, wires, points, etc. were all fresh when I picked the car up. My timing light killed over so I haven't checked that yet. Just wondering what you guys thought(timing, valves, bad gas, etc.)? Thanks
That sounds like the typical SBF valve problem. Sometimes the guides wore off center, and the valve doesn't seat in the same place every time. Try some Marvel oil down the carb, and some in the tank. It that doesn't clear it up, the heads may have to come off.
Well WTF? I sure hope it is something more simple then that. Speaking of the valves, anyone have a suggestion on the best way to adjust the vavles on this thing? I have read a few different methods, just wondering what works best for you guys. Thanks again.
these early 289's had adjustable rocker arms..pull the valve covers off ( 1 at a time)start the engine, and back the first rocker arm nut off till you hear a loud(er) click..then tighten it till the click goes away, and tighten about another 1/2 turn.repeat on every valve....the popping could be from a valve being too tight.
Check the bushing in the distributer for wear. Looked forever till I found point were changing. Sounded like the same issue