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Author Topic: Curb idle  (Read 1657 times)

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Offline 1974pintowagon!

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Curb idle
« on: July 13, 2017, 11:13:02 PM »
I'm trying to figure out the curb idle for my 2.3 with 4 speed should be set at. I'm also wondering why my pinto would be popping through the exhaust when shifting and on deceleration.

Offline 1974pintowagon!

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Re: Curb idle
« Reply #1 on: July 15, 2017, 02:17:56 AM »
Anyone??? No one knows the specs on what rpm the idle should be set at? In can't seem to find specs on this anywhere

Offline Wittsend

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Re: Curb idle
« Reply #2 on: July 15, 2017, 06:13:52 PM »

My Clymer's manual says:


 "Curb Idle (solenoid - On) 1973-1974  See emission decal" Well, isn't that a great help.  >:(


 " Idle Speed (solenoid Off) 2.3 (thru 1976) 550 RPM"


My Haynes manual...,though it states "thru 1974" does not even acknowledge that ford used a 2.3 in the Pinto in '74!  >:( >:(


My Pinto came with a 2.0 and a missing Decel valve. I then went immediately to a Turbo motor. So, while lacking that knowledge..., you might want to investigate the Decel valve as a cause because the problem seems to occur when you lift the throttle. It is during those high vacuum times that the valve is active. That said many people seem to remove them because they are a problem.




Offline dick1172762

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Re: Curb idle
« Reply #3 on: July 16, 2017, 11:08:14 AM »
I've always set the idle as low as the engine would keep running in day to day driving. On Pintos that are hopped up that might be as high as 1000 rpm due to a cam change. Works for me.
Its better to be a has-been, than a never was.

Offline dick1172762

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Re: Curb idle
« Reply #4 on: July 19, 2017, 03:27:25 PM »
Just remember that a 100,000+ mile Pinto is not likely to idle at the same RPM as a new one. Play it by ear and you'll be ok. If the car will move fast from a dead stop without touching the gas pedal your idle is most likely too high.
Its better to be a has-been, than a never was.