Another sniper question - which kit / config

[IT Cowboy]

I found a mechanic that knows his carbs and older vehicles and he says the throttle link bushing on my Quadrajet is worn out and probably causing a vacuum leak. I found a bushing kit from Cliffs for $75 plus the carb probably needs a rebuild kit. For the cost, time and expense I an considering throwing on a Holly 1406. Any thoughts or virtual beatings to be had.

[Steeveedee]

If you think you can do the reaming of the throttle plate and installation of the throttle pate bushings, good on you. I had those done by a local shop, since I didn't want to buy Cliff's kit for a one-time job. Rebuilding a Q-Jet is dead simple. Buy Cliff's book; there are things you will learn that will stand you in good stead. I didn't make any modifications that Cliff shows in his book, as my carb is dead stock on a dead stock engine. I did end up putting on an electric choke, though. Checking that there is a vacuum leak at the throttle shaft is easy- just squirt carb cleaner at the primary throttle shaft on both sides- left and right. If the rpm changes, the baseplate is worn and needs the bushings. The secondary throttle shaft does not need bushings, btw.

ETA- you engine will run great with the new carb, because it is new. But it won't actually be calibrated like the general's engineers spent many sleepless nights making sure the settings were correct.