*Serious* newbie question - tune-up HOWTO?

Question

I've always owned electronically controlled cars, never owned a non fuel-injected car. Is there a good guide online for doing a tune-up on my '68 289 2V coupe? So far I plan on putting in new points, condensor, rotor, cap, plugs and wires. I will set the points with a feeler gauge. I don't have a timing light so I know I need to get one. I am pretty sure that the carb needs to be rebuilt. I've done a ton of rebuilds on motorcycle carbs so I don't think it will be a big stretch to do the automobile one.

Am I missing anything?

Thanks! Thomas

Dinsdale · Accepted Answer

Look into the Pertronix electronic ignition systems.  It replaces thepoints and condensor while keeping the original distributor.Here's a how-to:DPPics of the cars:

Spike · Answer

I would highly suggest you purchase a copy of Chilton's 641/2-73Mustang/Cougar Repair Manual. You can go to and do a search for Chilton's Repair Manual in the books category...then scan for the Mustang/Cougar one. Then note that they also have alisting for used copies. I just picked one up for $12 and change inbrand new still in the wrapper condition. With shipping it came to$19, which saved my about $8 over buying it locally. Not much you say?How about it's enough for 3 more gallons of gas....or about 42 milesof travel... IF I don't kick in the other two barrels... LOL    : )Hey! Spikey Likes IT!1965 Ford Mustang fastback 2+2 A Code 289 C4 Trac-LokVintage Burgundy w/Black Standard InteriorVintage 40 Wheels 16X8"w/BF Goodrich Comp T/A Radial 225/50ZR16

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u are a foctardu go girlhurc ast

Sarah Czepiel · Answer

Thomas Cameron · Answer

Yup, I already have the Chilton's guide - bought it about a week ago and have been reading it cover to cover. Just wanted to see if there were any words of wisdom the group had to share before I dive in.

Thomas

one80out · Answer

Just wanted to see if there were anyNew plugs, points, condensor, cap, and wires, and a rebuilt carb, thatabout covers it.As for the timing, I would not trust the markings on the balancerwithout checking first.  This is because the outer ring almostcertainly has slipped and rotated from its original position.  If youfeel that you must use a timing light, bring the #1 cylinder to TDC onthe compression stroke and mark your actual TDC on the balancer with anail or paint or chalk.  Add additional markings the same distance fromTDC as the factory markings are on the balancer.Myself, I don't even bother with a light.   I just use a vacuum gauge.With the vacuum advance hose detached, I twist the distriutor until Ifind max vacuum.  Then I reconnect the vacuum advance and drive up asteep hill in high gear and listen for ping.  If you have a quietexhaust this is not hard, but a loud exhaust may cover it up.  Youdon't want to have ANY ping, so err on the side of caution. 180 Out

Thomas Cameron · Answer

Excellent info, thanks a bunch.  That was what I was looking for!TC

Spike · Answer

In the beginning of the Chilton's Manual, there are some Dos andDon'ts. Follow them. Follow the Safety Tips. And use the correcttools. Little things like marking the hoses or wires (1 goes to 1, 2goes to 2, etc) helps keep you out of trouble. Surprising how a smalldot of white nail polish or paint BEFORE you loosen and rotate adistributor can make it so much easier to return to the original startpoint. Chilton's is quite good about those helpful pointers.Hey! Spikey Likes IT!1965 Ford Mustang fastback 2+2 A Code 289 C4 Trac-LokVintage Burgundy w/Black Standard InteriorVintage 40 Wheels 16X8"w/BF Goodrich Comp T/A Radial 225/50ZR16

Serious newbie question - tune-up HOWTO?

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