I replaced my dead stock carb and dist. with non computer controlled ones. The question is how do I know if I am running lean or rich? Can I install an aftermarket gauge, if so how and what kind should I get?
Matt

 

Could you explain that a little? if it ain't computer controlled..it ain't stock...

Anyway to answer your question yeah sure you can. I like Cyberdynes gauge, costs about $30, uses a stock O2 sensor, and even includes instructions.

 

Ok then. I replaced the stock cc carb and dist. and replaced them with non cc edelbrock carb and accel dist. does that clear it up?

 

FYI, if you happen to have a digital multimeter you can just
disconnect the stock o2 sensor and read the voltage off of it.

http://www.bob2000.com/carb.htm

 

No, you can't. At least not and do anything but confuse yourself. The refresh rate on standard multimeters isn't good for that..makes the readings jump around so much you can't tell what it's really doing.

 

please keep in simple i confuse myself enough as it is. Jester your reply was good enough I think. I am looking up the meter and hopefully next pay day i can pick one up. So when this damn snow goes away i can put it on the old TA.
Matt

 

What if your car was never CC? I have a Canadian 1983 Z28. It came with a 4 bbl Non CC Qjet. Can I snag an o2 sensor off of a newer camaro, and rig it into a guage?

What are the other signs that you are running rich/lean other than checking plugs?

 

Checking plugs really doesn't work except to check if you're so overly rich that they just foul out. Modern pump gas is too inconsistant and contaminated. Never really worked that well in the olden days either..they just didn't have a choice.

I don't know if canadian cars came with provisions for an O2 sensor in the exaust or not. If not you'll have to get a bung installed. Assuming you physically have a place to put an O2 sensor in, yes you can just get one for a later model camaro.