1976 Dodge Other Find Out Vacuum Leak Something Else 5 2l V8 318 Motor

1976 DODGE
100,009 MILES
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I need to find out if I have a vacuum leak or something else. I have a 5.2L/V8 318 motor and I have a hissing like a vacuum leak coming from it. I have checked all the hoses and everything is fine and when I put my hand over the carburetor barrels the engine seems to run smoother but as soon as I remove it, it try's to die.
Mar 21, 2013 at 9:48 PM
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CARADIODOC
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One way is to pinch off the main vacuum hoses, one at a time, to see which one affects the idle quality. Follow that to its branches and keep doing that to narrow it down. Another method is to slowly run water over the hoses while the engine is still cold. You'll see and hear the water get sucked in. The best way, if you can find an auto parts store that borrows tools is to use a smoke machine. That allows you to inject white, non-toxic smoke into the intake manifold and watch where it sneaks out.

You will also hear a hissing sound if the float is set too low in the carburetor. That will cause a stumble and hesitation at any speed. A vacuum leak won't be noticed at higher speeds. Don't overlook a separated or cracked PCV valve.
Mar 21, 2013 at 11:12 PM
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