I've tried to search amazon, but to no avail. I'm looking for a book that gives a general yet specific overview of how to and the principles of using a timing light and vacuum guage to tune a big block chevy for maxium performance and driveablility.
My 20 year old sears timing light conked out, and I just bought a new one.
I know how to set my timing, and fix it if its wrong, but I'm looking for a book that can tell me how to tune my engine to be happy..
Sorry if this is a silly question, but I'd appreciate an honest answer instead of a snide remark.
Its been a few years between the arson of my ford model A and the buildup of my chevy. The engine is getting pulled due to oil consumption, and I've decided, hoping that dyno #'s were not fabricated, that if there is nothing seriously wrong with the engine, I don't want to change much of anything except to a solid roller.
This car sees under 5k miles a year, so I want to keep it in tip top shape. I thought I did.. keeping the timing to where the builder reccomended it.. oil change, making sure parts are in good shape and lubed, etc, but I feel I haven't done the best job I could have.
So I've got my vacuum guage, timing light, and some other info, but...
To be quite honest, I'd be 1000x more comfortable tuning my engine from a laptop inside the car, it just makes that much more sense to a computer generation person like me.
So if anyone could point me in the right direction..
I know I'm going to have to set the valve lash every time I drive the car for a good while before it starts to even out, but that I can deal with. I just want this done right, and it has as much to do with me as whatever is causing the oil consumption in the engine..

Matt

Matt, have you searched the web? I have found TONS of info both here and elsewhere on tuning with a vac gauge, setting timing, adjusting valves, etc. Just print out hard copies and put em in a binder. With the web there is less need for outdated books anyhow and frankly, the guys with lots of good info and experience arent writing books because they are in the pits with you and I.

Also, consider that if you dont understand something you cant call up the author and say "Hey, can you clear this up for me?" as you can on the web or sites such as our beloved TC.

Try searchnig using google for exactly what you want to know. You'll find it, just gotta hunt. There are really informative articles that even I can understand out there.

[This message has been edited by Midnight Marauder (edited 11-26-2002).]