1964 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe Small Block - 327 Dyno Tune - Dyno Drives

The ignition timing was checked and recorded, reading 42 degrees total timing (initial and mechanical advance only; vacuum disconnected) at the damper.

Tom Habrzyk, Westech chassis dyno operator and tuner, always goes through a safety protocol before running at speed against the dyno's rollers, including checking the knock-offs on this car to ensure they are secure.

Tom uses a remote load control to operate the dyno while the car is driven through the gears to speed on the dyno rollers.

As driven into Westech, the 327 twisted the rollers to register 208 hp at 5,200 rpm, which equates to about 240 at the crank by the dyno software's calculation.

Although the 42 degrees total timing seemed like quite a high setting, running a timing loop and adjusting the timing down to 38 and then 40 degrees found the best power at the original 42-degree level.

Air/fuel ratio is read by a wide-band lambda sensor, which works through a probe in the tailpipe. The readings showed the carb was too rich at wide-open throttle. Stoner had a new carb to replace the existing Holley, which had been problematic for some time. Rather than tune the present unit, he wanted it replaced.

To really dial in a carb, it's essential to have the required tuning parts on hand. Make certain the tuning facility being considered has an assortment of jets, power valves, pump squirters, and other small parts, or be prepared to bring your own.

The replacement carb, a 600-cfm Holley from Jet Performance Products, was bolted in place, and the tuning began. The sight plugs were removed with the engine running to check the fuel level in the float bowls.