1980 Corvette Choke ( Fast Idle ) RPM Opinion

[Don I.]

Hello again! I need your opinion on something. 1980 Corvette, 350 CID with 3 speed automatic. At first cold start-up I'm getting between 1500 to 1600 RPM at fast idle. At the next kick down I'm getting around 1200 to 1300 RPM's and at idle between 600 and 700 RPM's. My concern is the high idle. Do you think 1500 to 1600 is normal or do you think it's too high? This is an all original car and it has never been tampered with. I just get a little worried when an engine is turning that many RPM's cold. Your thoughts? Thank you once again! Don

[Edward J.]

Re: 1980 Corvette Choke ( Fast Idle ) RPM Opinion

Don, surely sounds normal to me, cold start RPMS are generally In that area. I guess the key is when it starts does it start first try and stay running when cold. that seems to be the more likely problem with carburetors.

[Don I.]

Re: 1980 Corvette Choke ( Fast Idle ) RPM Opinion

Actually what it does it starts around 1100 RPM' s then quickly climbs to 1500 to 1600.

[Edward J.]

Re: 1980 Corvette Choke ( Fast Idle ) RPM Opinion

Don, that's still okay, it may take a second to respond to the cold operation, the choke pull- off opens slightly after start, this is likely the reason for a 1100 RPM startup speed and then raises to the RPM'S you see.

[Don I.]

Re: 1980 Corvette Choke ( Fast Idle ) RPM Opinion

Ok. Thanks Ed. I won't worry about it then. Thanks.