[959]

I just got my Howell TBI kit my 258 in the mail today. I’m going to install this weekend.

Any body want to share any tips and tricks?

 

[sourpwr]

Re: just got Howell kit

I put the Howell TBI kit on my 84 about 4 years ago. It was the best driveability mod that I have made. It was real easy. Unfortunately, it has been so long that I do not remember any of the issues that I may have had. The one thing I did to make it easier for me was to remove the Left fender. I spent $300 tightening my intake bolts a few weeks earlier; I split my knuckle open on the carb when the universal joint on the ratchet slipped and needed 3 stitches.

I have loved the TBI ever since I put it on. The only driveability issue that I had was the engine would occasionally die when I came to traffic lights. I spoke with Howell and they sent me directions to fix it.

Enjoy
Mike

 

[TOM85CJ7]

Re: just got howell kit

Go ahead and pull your carb and install the TBI adapter plate. It uses RTV as a seal, and needs to setup overnight. Read through the directions a couple of times. The install is fairly straightforward. Post if you run into any problems.

Later,
Tom

 

[959]

Re: just got howell kit

thanks swr and tom.

did you guys cut the pulse air tubes off or leave them? if I cut them do you think bending folding them is good enough for a week or so. or can I get caps.

also besides the RTV, and air cleaner is there any other I need to buy. I was hoping the instructions would have a "materials needed" section.

 

[TOM85CJ7]

Re: just got howell kit

I put 3/4" rubber caps on mine and they have been fine for years. If you cut them off you may have some trouble passing your next inspection depending on where you live. I got my air cleaner from:

http://www.sallee-chevrolet.com/sales.html

10" Chrome GM Cleaner with filter.
Part number 12342082 $12
Part Number 12342074 $10

Both of these parts are on the page linked above. I don't think you can find a better deal anywhere else.

Later,
Tom

EDIT: Not sure if you have power brakes or not. You may need a smaller air cleaner.

 

[sourpwr]

Re: just got howell kit

I apologize for not having all the parts names memorized. When you say Pulse are, are you referring to the line that goes into the CAT? If so, I took a copper pipe fitting, split it then used a small muffler clamp to hold it in place. This has worked very well for me.

I ended up with the K&N 9" air filter. I have power brakes and nothing bigger than 9" will fit, without work. I have wanted to change the air filter assembly out to something that would be less susceptible to water. I have tried junkyard cleaners from an s10 and from a TBI Caddy. The caddy tube would probably work but the s10 will not fit around my master cylinder.

For emissions concerns, I went to the Howell website and downloaded the emissions sticker for the California kits. I believe the only difference between the California kit and the other is the 4 wire 02 sensor.

Mike

 

[LEVE]

Re: just got howell kit

In reply to:

I believe the only difference between the California kit and the other is the 4 wire 02 sensor.

[/ QUOTE ] 1. Correct, except...
2. The California kit also adds a VSS sensor not found in the 49 State kit.
3. The California Kit O2 sensor is a Heated Sensor.

 

[2770]

I cut my pulse air tubes leaving approx 3/4" and cut 2 bolts (cut off head and thread to 3/4") that fit snug and brazed them in. Looks and works great.

For the emissions problem, here in Albuquerque, I brought all the Howell paper work to the City. They said that they like new technology upgrades and that as long as it was C.A.R.B. certified and passed the sniffer they would accept it. They had their referee mechanic check out the installation and run the "sniffer". They then gave me a letter that exempts the vehicle from visual inspection of air pump and all of it's components. They still visual the O2 sensor and cat and check actual emmisions. It payed to have the California kit.

I hope this helps.