Expert: Dan Liddy - 8/19/2008

Question
I have 350 cid engine, HEI distributor, Roch. 2 brll carb. In my first race it fell on it's face at end of the straightaway. Would pick back up in the corner. Second race would not make it down the straight away before falling on its face. Any ideas?

Answer
It depends , is it doing this at the start of a session ?   or only on the last two or three laps. If it only happens toward the end of an event, put an extra gallon of fuel in it.

I think it's probably running outta gas.  Check your fuel pressure, should be in the 4-5 PSI range. Try a high volume pump (www.summitracing.com) or an electric pump. I prefer the $60.00 Carter over the high dollar Hollys . The Carter works well for me, as does the Holly, but the Hollys have failed me numerous times, and at $100.00 plus- - - well you get the picture.   You can also try raising your carburetor float level a bit, maybe 1/8" ,  Then if it runs at all, you might make it to your brake point. If it starts blubbering in the corners it's too high.

It would be a good idea to mount a fuel pressure guage where you can see it at the end of the straight. If pressure falls when it dies, that's your answer.  I do NOT like fuel pressure guages in the cockpit with me, a leak can cause a fire, and a fire can be deadly.  Having been badly burned once, I take great care with such stuff.  So mount the thing on the cowl, outside the windshield, in front of the firewall for a race or two until you have your answer, then sell it to someone, or keep it in your race box for use the next time you have trouble of that sort.

From what you tell me, I don't think the trouble lies anywhere else.  However, if you think of more 'evidence' to present, feel free to do so.  AND I would appreciate it if you'll let me know what happens.

Good luck !!

Dan Liddy
Sarasota, Florida