Well, I figure it's time for an update so here goes.

First of all I want to thank Denny, Mike, Ken, Roger, Dave W., Iwannagofast and ALL THE OTHERS for their invaluable help in getting my Gomer Pyle brain thru all of this ?so far?

Since I posted last, my efforts have been directed towards stopping the oil leak at the oil pan drain plug so I could at least try and get it started. It seems that the problem wasn't a stripped plug at all but a leak outside the edge of the normal plug and gasket which ?kinda? explains what the Barrio Brothers had done.







So for now, I have solved the problem temporarily with a longer plug that accomodates a proper fitting larger brass washer and rubber washer.





So far it is holding oil very nicely but once I get it to where I can get it on the ramps then I'll address this more carefully and properly.

I also have rebuilt the carb return spring bracket so that it wouldn't turn sideways like Roger mentioned it might. I also applied some proper springs to the build.



The linkage is now inline and runs straight and level instead of running at an angle but I still haven't addressed the kick-down which Ken keeps reminding me of. Thanks Ken, I need all the memory help I can get.

AND Last but by no means least - - - mounting the new carb and getting it cranked. I'll try to be brief but the bottom line is that during the process of learning how to set the electric choke (thanks Gentlemen), putting the spacer between the intake and the carb in upside down (a supreme Gomer moment, I might add)



It is still needing some adjusting by someone a lot more qualified than me. Hopefully I can find a local Rodder/Mechanic/Compassionate do-gooder that will let me pay him/her to come over and take a look.

Guess that about brings my "fiasco" up to date and I have managed to get it cranked but with an idle of 1400 rpms according to the tachometer on the dash. It started to work on my nerves so I'm backed off of it for a few days and doing some much needed yard work and R&R.

Once I get it to crank and idle properly then I'll be moving on to replacing the plug wires, cleaning up the rat's nest Barrio wiring and a shroud on the radiator along with some tweeking there. Then it's off to the Pros from some dual exhausts out the rear and some tranny checking, including the kick-down and cooler. Should be winter time by then and a lot cooler.

Thanks again to everyone who has been so generous and kind with their help.

Em