I've been pretty lazy on getting around to getting the vacuum advanced hooked up but since I have done a lot to the motor this year (appearance wise) I decided to get this operational now. I put less than 500 miles on my car a year so it hasn't been a huge concern for me until now.

I went to set up my vacuum advance pot for what level I wanted it to be fully in and while using the vacuum hand pump I could not get any vacuum on the advance pot. After a few little experiments I found out that a check valve inside of the pot is installed backwards. I can pressurize the vacuum pot but I can't pull a vacuum, should be the opposite. Replacement part is $35

Just a warning to some of the newb's out there to never assume a new part is always good

 

I've never had that problem, but I have had the diaphragm inside go south from oil getting in there. That is another thing to be on the look out for.

A vacuum hand pump is one of the best investments for a tool that I have ever made. Everyone should have one!

 

I have to agree it a must have for a DIY person......



...or at least talk a family member into getting one and then borrow it

 

I'll be going through a complete testing of the vacuum advance over the next few days. I've already done some preliminary testing however I have to lock out the mechanical advance before I go any further.
The hand held pump is invaluable for this kind of work.
I have to thank my brother for having one!