Well today I got the fuel sender changed out (gauge works now!), changed the oil (while running a bottle of Napa oil system cleaner through), replaced the PVC valve and breather along with all the busted hoses, eliminated the EGR system and tuned the carb (which was actually pretty close to good when I started).

Engine runs FAR better now. Idle is much smoother, doesn't backfire as much on deceleration, startup is almost instantaneous, acceleration is much improved, and at speed it still feels like it's got some balls. Calibrating that fuel sender was a big PITA though, but I got 'er set (1/4 tank with 6 gallons in the tank) and now I can actually tell when I need to gas it up!

Tomorrow's going to be new plugs and setting the timing and valve lash, and hopefully I'll get around to backflushing the cooling system and changing the oil out in the rear end.

Overall I'm VERY happy with this car, and it looks like it'll serve me well for many years to come.

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'74 Duster w/ HEI ignition, beat to snot suspension, A904, 8.25" 3.55 SG rear, still being tuned up and gets 17 MPG

Know how they always build a better idiot? That's me