It is supposed to be Spring, so I drove with the one working window cracked opened a bit.
The fumes. I had thought that they were gone for good, but they are back in my life.
A few days ago, the computer light came on for a bit. I believe that it had also done this a few weeks ago.
Accessing the code with the proverbial bent paper clip, it threw out a "code 51".
The Haynes book says that this refers to a bad chip.
The chip is a Hypertec. A dwell-meter shows that the feedback system works, but this has little bearing on the issue, because the car stinks even when cold. and yes, the choke works. The only thing I adjusted today was the mixture screws. Leaned them out 1/2 turn [rotated then into their seats]. I figured it wouldn't help, and was correct.
Until I read the code, I thought it might be the temp sensor or the vacuum sensor. Had a spare vacuum sensor, and that actually improved cold idle quite a bit. Does code 51 refer to just the chip, or to a sensor or two as well? I can see how conflicting sensor readings might give a computer agida. But then again, I do not know if this computer is smart enough to get upset over such a thing.
Car obviously has a Rochester, and all original plumbing and wiring, but for a different chip. The old chip is no longer in my parts box. Would be great if that was not so. Please help if you can...

Seth

 

I am adding this to my post:

I called Hypertech this A.M., and they are sending a new chip, as it has a lifetime warranty. I will need to send the old one to avoid paying. I explained the computer code to the tech, and asked if the computer fried the chip or if it simply failed. He could [or would not] say. I need to say, though, that it is nice to actually see a company stand by their product.
The chip should be here by Friday.
Hope it lasts longer than the last one.

Seth

 

try to find an oem "chip". that hypertech stuff is garbage, i can't believe they are still selling them.

 

You are obviously correct about the quality.
It should not have crapped out. This company must be using the cheapest of the cheap PROM chips.
The only real performance gain over the original is the delay in converter lock-up.
I will use the new chip until an original, either with or w/o it's computer, can be found.
Someone here must have these items collecting dust on a high garage shelf.

Seth

 

They sent the new chip.
The second I started the car to get it out of the garage, the old chip totally failed.
Put in the new chip, and all is wonderful again.

Why, oh why, did the chip fail?
Does Hypertech use a cheap blank? Or is my computer bad or not grounded properly or something?

Hypertech or GM, a chip should last.

Seth