My 1980 Ford LTD 351 engine ran like crap with the VVF carb. You can remove this VVF and use a Ford autolite or holley carb by installing an after market GM style 1 wire Dist. I bought mine off E-bay for around $50. I dis connected all the computer stuff. Now it runs like it should. If you have an AOD make sure you adjust the kick down lever according to the manual. If you use a holley you have to make an extension for the kickdown lever. For the autolite make sure the kickdown lever is the same length as the VVF carb.
I didn't have to get any hazoo distributor for my '79 ranchero; I just used a Duraspark II dizzy. On the Ford/Mercury, all you need is the dizzy, the harness that goes between the dizzy and the module, and a module with a blue grommet. Use the two-wire plug to power the module, and hook the dizzy, the harness, and the three-wire plug together, and set your timing. As for the carb, I just plopped on a 2150 2-barrel, but I can't find a kickdown lever with a purple mark (351W/C4).
Twink...ha ha. I had a cousin that was an AF Thunderbird pilot a few decades ago, and his childhood nickname was Twink. Dad said that he took Great Aunt Alice to see him on the flightline (Dad was a Naval officer then); as they approached, he says, "Hi Mom!" She then says, in front of the other pilots, "Hi, Twink!" He then stiffens up and blurts out, "Mother!" Dad said the pilots were all standing around, snickering.... I should put up an ad, as I'm trying to sell it; would anyone here be interested in it?
You should. Last year for those beauties. Wish I had the where-with-all as it would also give me a chance to visit my old stomping ground on the way (born in Richland). Unfortunately need to save my pennies for tidying up the CP, fixing the house, medical bills, virtual pipe organ project etc. mike
Washington's my 'adopted' stomping ground (I'm a Navy brat). Unfortunately, I already have ads up on here for stuff I know should sell, but I haven't sold anything yet. I'm waiting for one member to contact me so I can sell him a couple items. http://seattle.craigslist.org/sno/cto/4470291044.html This is the ad.
We did a couple of VVF changes in the shop. I don't remember having to do anything except installing the new rebuilt carb. Seem to remember that our carb supplier had a special modified one for bolt on installation. I believe the carb rebuilder was Champion, but not sure. Been too long ago.
On my 89 Grand Marquis, there was no modification necessary at all to remove the VV carb and put on a normal Ford 2 bbl. To change to an Edelbrock Performer and square bore 4 bbl, no mods needed at all on an 87 Grand Marquis, either. Straight swap, and adjust the kick down.
