LeanBurn Conversion is Done! 1987 Fifth Avenue

After being concerned that the LeanBurn computer may be toasting my engine
by running it too lean, even though it was performing fairly well, I decided
that NOW was the time to do the conversion to a standard 2bbl carburetor and
Chrysler electronic ignition. I know enough to get by, but am far from an
experienced mechanic and didn't want to take any chances ruining my new car
from not knowing how to maintain/tune LeanBurn.

The conversion was pretty much a bolt-on deal with removal of the old
carburetor, distributor, and LeanBurn computer and wiring harness. The
ignition was an "Orange Box" kit that included everything needed. I
actually got the kit on eBay for $99, manufactured in 1996, but still
new-in-box. The carburetor is an OEM style carb from a '74 Valiant that I
ordered from Advance auto parts for $116.

It runs GREAT now! It's just like all of my other old clunkers now...
Depress and release the accelerator pedal once to start and it will idle
high for a bit to warm up, then I can tap the pedal and it will drop down to
a normal idle and run smooth as can be! No more super rich cold startups
that make the catalytic convertors glow red hot. No more chugging along
until it's good and hot. And out driving, no hesitation, no stumble while
crusing or accelerating. No choking when I let off of the gas! It runs
great...period!

I'm glad I did it!

-Steve

 

Steve Reinis wrote:

One more tip: Buy another EI module (preferably something like a
Borg-Warner, Standard Ignition, or Wells unit from a parts store) and
keep it in your glove box. Manufacturing quality on those "Orange Box"
types was all over the map. Lots of them die for no apparent reason, but
I've rarely had an original Chrysler "black box", Standard, Borg-Warner
or other aftermarket unit konk out on me.

 

I'll also add: Keep your ears open for rattlety-ping! The distributors
that come with the Mopar Performance Orange Box kits are equipped with
VERY light "drag race" springs on the mechanical advance weights, and
these usually allow too much spark advance too quickly, causing pinging
under acceleration.

DS

 

Yes! That was a tip I read on the web! I do have some ping, but nothing
too terrible. I'm going to hit the junkyard and swap out the springs.