your vacuum advance should hook to the outlet on the carb that sucks when you rev the engine, not to one that sucks at a idle.
On pre HEI cars, the vacuum advance actually hooked up to vacuum at idle. Below the throttle plates.
There is a fitting called a " intake vacuum fitting" which is used on the ram air model and on the basic model that when used it will provide stronger faster vacuum, be ready for a big change in off the line performance, but rougher idling.
If it is a point type distributor you will want to hook it to constant vacuum...somewhere on a port in the base plate. If it's HEI you'll want to hook it to one in the carb body. Something that has no vacuum at idle but pulls vacuum as you give it throttle.
A manifold vacuum source, anywhere below the throttle plates.
There should be a vacuum source on the carb above the throttle body that gives spark ported vacuum. You can connect a tube from this source to the distributor.
Remove the distributor cap. Remove the hose to the vacuum advance. Remove the two screws holding the vacuum advance on. Install in reverse order.
You'd need a constant source such as manifold or throttle body vacuum for power brakes, pcv, and disappearing headlights, and a spark-ported source such as one you'd find above the throttle body for the distributor.
The distributor vacuum advance on a 400 Pontiac is typically located on the side of the distributor housing. It is connected to a vacuum source, usually from the carburetor, which helps adjust the ignition timing based on engine load. This advance mechanism can improve performance and fuel efficiency by optimizing timing under various driving conditions. Always refer to a service manual for specific details related to your vehicle's year and model.
Perhaps throttle plate is stuck open. try to "free " with a screwdriver or perhaps a vacuum leak
If the throttle plates are closed, a vacuum leak would be the prime suspect.
A High Energy Ignition (HEI) distributor does not strictly require vacuum advance, but incorporating it can enhance engine performance and efficiency. Vacuum advance helps improve fuel economy and throttle response by adjusting ignition timing based on engine load. While many HEI systems can function without it, using vacuum advance is generally recommended for optimal performance in most applications.
An SVDA distributor, or "Single Vacuum Dual Advance" distributor, is an ignition component commonly used in older Volkswagen engines. It features a single vacuum diaphragm that provides both vacuum and mechanical advance, optimizing ignition timing for improved engine performance and fuel efficiency. The design allows for better throttle response and smoother operation compared to standard distributors. SVDA distributors are often sought after for restoring or enhancing vintage VW vehicles.
With a fuel port injection OR throttle body injection engine, the engine develops a partial vacuum between the throttle assembly and the intake valves. Note that there is never a true vacuum in ANY engine, and when the throttle is wide open, there is very little vacuum.
With a fuel port injection OR throttle body injection engine, the engine develops a partial vacuum between the throttle assembly and the intake valves. Note that there is never a true vacuum in ANY engine, and when the throttle is wide open, there is very little vacuum.