here's a question for all you mechanics .. I have a 77 280 that is FI . Should the rpm s drop when I remove the oil dip stick ..or the oil filler cap in the valve cover. If not .. why would it do this ? The motor almost dies when I do this.

thanks .. bruce

Yup, totally normal. The crankcase is vented into the intake, after the air flow meter. Removing either of those items lets lots of un-metered air in causing a very weak (lean) mixture.

thanks .. good to know.