As we got to the back there was an old Rochester 2 barrel carb, in pieces, that I had robbed pieces from a few years ago for something else. Being able to see all of its "innards" led to explanations of "idle circuits" and "pullover enrichment" and then finally "being on the mainjets" with him able to see how they all interconnected, along with the cautionary stories about needles and seats and what happens when they "stick" (a deluge of gasoline spewing out of the carb top usually followed by an engine fire).
From under the bench I pulled out an old Rochester "Quadrajet", the 4-barrel "performance" carb from that same era; when he saw the 2 1/4" back barrels in comparison to the little pair in that 2-barrel he suddenly understood a lot more about "hot rods" and horsepower and gasoline comsumption!
I promised him a few months ago that if one of Dottie's "Powerball" tickets hits, we can build a "deuce coupe" using some of the other things I have stashed away in various corners and some of the multitude of parts you can buy now. I'm kind of hoping that in the next year or two things work out and we build something anyway...he's a lot more intrigued by mechanical things than his Dad or his Uncle ever were and it would be nice to pass some of the knowledge along instead of taking it with me!
(Not that this has anything to do with my last post or anything!)
For now though, he's more concerned about getting the boat cleared off before spring comes!
Me too!
May the week be kind to each of you!
alan
9 comments:
Sounds like you have a grand student just waiting in the wings. What a wonderful thing to contemplate.
As much fun as the Daytona 500 and Winter Olympics and all can be to watch, the afternoon in your garage will be the memory from this weekend that lingers with him for life. It's wonderful that you could give him that.
Building this close and great relationship, is a beautiful thing.. Go too Alan.. behind you in thoutht all the way...
Naukishtae
I remember how much my dad appreciated two (out of four) of his grandson's interest in his tools and model steam engines. Hope you manage to build something really special between you in both senses!
Dear Alan
I know you will cheerish those moments with your grandson. I am sure he will to.
I am so sorry I have not been around here as much as I would like. Time just seems to be racing by. Its not always possible to make time for our families and friends as much as we would like to.
You are so generous of spirit and giving of your time to others.
I read your last posting regarding your beloved Dad and it touched my heart. I am sure he will be very proud to know he has a son like you.
Debbie x
Grand kids are such a joy.. :)
Grand kids are such a joy.. :)
That is wonderful Allen you sharing your knowledge with your grandson. I love mechanical things but nowadays won't touch them, they play havoc with my nails hehe.
Why did I think you were talking about guns?
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