Idle with an Automatic Transmission

[rschardan]

I have a '73 1.9L in my '69 GT with an Automatic Transmission and an electronic Ignition. I have to set the Idle speed to 1400 rpm because when I put it in gear it drops the Idle to 800 rpm. Please help me.

[2 Fast 4 U]

Originally Posted by rschardan I have a '73 1.9L in my '69 GT with an Automatic Transmission and an electronic Ignition. I have to set the Idle speed to 1400 rpm because when I put it in gear it drops the Idle to 800 rpm. Please help me.

That is very normal, I my self set the idle to 900 to 950 and have about 650 to 700 RPM when in gear, according to the manual the idle on an automatic should be set to 750 to 800 RPM.
My engine is due for a maintenance, and is operating at about 200-250 RPM when started [cold weather] and at about 450-500 RPM when at operating temp.

[69whitegt]

I idle mine at about 1450 and it drops to about a 950 when in gear. I know I hate that but that is a automatic GT for ya.

[GTJIM]

1) Your torque convertor is too 'tight' - get it cleaned out and the stall speed checked. Find a convertor with 2,800 - 3,000 rpm stall speed.

2) Get a new vacuum modulator and ensure the vacuum line to it is not leaking ... or blocked. Also make sure that the little orifice in the fitting that the line connects to on the intake manifold is clear.

3) Run a standard cam!