Flat top carbs replaced with ZTherapy round tops

[StinkyCheese]

Last fall I replaced my flat-top carbs on my 73 with ZTherapy round top carbs. I took a bunch of pictures for reference, so I thought I'd put together a quick description of what went down.

Here's a couple of before pictures. What a mess of plumbing:

Once I pulled the trigger and ordered the ZTherapy carbs (about $1100 for everything I ordered), they couldn't get here soon enough. I bugged them a few times and they eventually shipped them to me. All of the threads about ZTherapy are true – they are a joy to work with and have an excellent product.

The unboxing:

After watching the video, I was a little bummed about by this kinked hose, but I got it straightened out ok:

I took the rear flat-top off first, and realized theres a lot of coolant plumbing to deal with. The flat-tops used the coolant, but the new carbs and balance tube do not..

In particular, this line going into the exhaust manifold – I didn't want to mess with that. I was sure it would break off in the rust, so I left it attached. Maybe I'll get headers some day..

Both carbs and balance tube removed:

Installed the new balance tube. Looks really out of place on the manifold. So pretty.

I guess I can only attach 10 pics, so I'll continue with the next message...

[StinkyCheese]

One carb attached, notice the coolant plumbing still flopping around.

Second carb attached.

I just capped what I could cap:

Unfortunately, my linkage arm thingy was too long. When I started up the motor it kept the throttle open to about 4000 rpm!

I knew that wouldn't fly, so I bent it to the correct length. I thought it would only be a temporary fix, but I haven't bothered to get another one yet...

Finished product. Marty Rogan was kind enough to sell me his old air cleaner. I stripped and painted it. I should probably buy some stickers for it...

The new carbs look so nice. Unfortunately the rest of my engine bay looks 40 years old. I'm going to have to start replacing all the hoses, clearcoat the valve cover, etc..

The performance difference is night and day. It doesn't cut out at high acceleration anymore. Doesn't have any cold-start issues or overtemp issues. It passes Utah emission standards with flying colors. It just runs so smooth – like a new car. I couldn't be happier.

I decided to not re-attach the EGR or any of the rest of the gizmos on top. The new balance tube doesn't have an EGR opening. I think the other gizmos were broken anyway. Or maybe I'm just a retard that doesn't know anything about motors. My brain says, “its legal and it runs good, count it.” =D

[Diseazd]

Bruce and Steve are "The Man". Good job on making your 73 much improved!

[Travel'n Man]

Great post - great running carbs make a HUGE difference!